CUNY School of Law

CUNY School of Law stands out in the legal landscape with its unwavering and progressive commitment to public interest law. Founded on the principle that law only holds significance in relation to the human problems it addresses, CUNY Law is not just a place to learn legal theory, but a vibrant community dedicated to making a tangible difference in the world. Prospective students seeking to leverage their legal education for social change and advocacy will find a deeply aligned mission here.

The school's progressive vision was set from its inception in the early 1980s. Charles Halpern, widely recognized as the "father of public interest law" and co-founder of the Center for Law and Social Policy, was brought in as its founding dean in 1981. Under his leadership, and with the intellectual contributions of distinguished professors like Howard Lesnick, CUNY Law began to shape a unique curriculum that emphasized the practical application of legal knowledge to real-world issues affecting low-income communities and marginalized groups.

A pivotal moment arrived in 1987 with the appointment of W. Haywood Burns as the second dean. Burns made history as the first African American Dean of a New York law school, further cementing CUNY Law's commitment to diversity and justice. He played a critical role in securing the school's accreditation, a crucial step that ensured the longevity and recognition of its groundbreaking public interest mandate. This legacy continues to define the student experience, preparing graduates to advocate effectively for policies that improve lives and advance human rights.