Mindfulness and the Law Professor

The law school environment is rich in history. When one reads accounts of the early days of America’s law schools, among the most exciting figures are the law professors who went on to make important and profound changes in American legal education and jurisprudence.

Many of these historical figures were known for not just their brilliance, but also for they capacity to listen, to deeply understand where their students were in the learning process, and to offer just the right measure of wisdom. This collection of skills -- one that makes not just for a great teacher, but a much loved and honored human being -- owes itself to many factors.  Among them are clarity of mind, empathy, compassion, commitment, and experience.

While it is difficult to pinpoint the factors contributing to a person’s capacity to embody some of these cherished traits -- the fortunate circumstance of grounded, present, and loving parents; a challenging life that leads one on the path to find inner balance and resolve; the fortuitous falling into an environment rich in contemplative practices -- whatever the source, The Institute for Mindfulness Studies believes that ultimately they are borne out of a mind that is aware!  And, a mind that is aware offers something very special to others -- the opportunity to cultivate awareness.

This website is devoted to offering information and insights on the people who embrace the teaching of contemplative practices as a part of the law school educational experience. It is intended to honor their efforts and recognize the challenges of moving into new and, in some ways, unfamiliar territory.

It is also devoted to the law students who are interested in and are being introduced to contemplative practices as a means of developing their skills of concentration and focus, integrity, and inner-resources for dealing with the challenging and stressful conditions that abound in the practice of law, with roots in the legal education process. 

We’d be delighted to hear from you with comments and ideas for this website.  Click here to send us an e-mail.