Alaska is closer to addressing its lawyer shortage thanks to a groundbreaking partnership between the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) and Seattle University School of Law. Meanwhile, this collaboration, dubbed the Alaska Hybrid Hub, enables Alaskans to pursue law degrees without leaving the state.
Previously, aspiring lawyers had to relocate to other states to pursue their education. However, this partnership tackles Alaska’s status as the only state without a physical law school.
The Alaska Hybrid Hub mirrors Seattle University’s Flex JD program, offering a part-time hybrid model. Additionally, students attend occasional in-person weekend classes in Seattle and complete the rest of their education on the UAA campus.
Notably, this partnership addresses a critical concern: Alaska’s “legal deserts.” The American Bar Association defines these as areas where residents must travel far to find a lawyer for routine matters. Consequently, Alaska has many of these deserts, with insufficient lawyers to meet community demand.
The Alaska Law Education Partnership aims to bridge this gap. This program’s hybrid model provides flexibility and accessibility.
Support from alumni of both universities is pouring in. Some plan to participate in networking events and potentially take on directing roles at UAA.
Staff from both institutions signed a memorandum of understanding, paving the way for the establishment of the hybrid hub.
The Alaska Law Education Partnership is a significant step forward. Alaska can retain talented individuals and address its lawyer shortage by providing local access to legal education.
This news story was originally published by Alaska‘s News Source.
