About the Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP)
The Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP) helps ensure that law school graduates with a commitment to public service will be financially able to pursue their chosen career paths, despite relatively low salaries and high student loan obligations.
LRAP funding is available for JD graduates who are practicing law full time in a qualified public interest job and are making less than $45,000/year. Currently, eligible law school graduates can apply for an annual maximum of $3,500 from LRAP for up to five years after graduation if they remain in qualifying public interest employment.
Pierce Law and the Social Justice Institute are committed to ensuring that the Loan Repayment Assistance Fund remains a reliable resource for graduates who choose careers serving the public interest. Pierce Law contributes to the fund annually, and actively seeks donations for the program.
To learn about eligibility requirements, loans covered, and how awards are calculated, see the application.
Frequently asked questions
Could I be eligible for LRAP assistance other than, or in addition to, Pierce Law's LRAP? What other LRAP Programs are there? How can I find out about others?
There is no prohibition in the Pierce LRAP regarding the receipt of other assistance. Some employers and states, as well as the federal government, offer debt assistance to attorneys in certain public interest areas. Further information can be found at www.equaljusticeworks.org.
Are Judicial Clerkships eligible?
Judicial Clerkships are not currently eligible.
Does everyone who is eligible receive funds?
Loan repayment assistance is not guaranteed for any JD graduates. Selection of the recipients and the amount of the awards depend on the availability of funds.
Who decides whether I will receive assistance?
The Pierce Law LRAP Committee, which is appointed annually by the Dean.
How many years am I eligible for assistance through LRAP?
Funds are made available to qualified applicants during the first five years after graduation from Pierce Law. The time period is tolled during a judicial clerkship. e.g., if you serve as a judicial law clerk after graduation for one year, the 5 year period will begin the year after your clerkship.
Do I have to file a new application each year I need assistance?
Yes.
Can I apply for loan repayment assistance retroactively?
Retroactive applications are not accepted.
Still have questions? Please contact:
Mary Sheffer
Assistant Dean and Co-Director, Career Services
msheffer@piercelaw.edu
General information about loan repayment assistance programs, including
State, federal and employer programs, can be obtained at
www.equaljusticeworks.org.
