St. Mary’s University School of Law is set to enhance its legal education offerings significantly thanks to a generous $5 million donation. The funds, provided by the Oatman Hill Foundation—established from the estate of law alumnus Bennie Walter Bock—will establish the Bennie W. Bock II Center for Business and Transactional Law.

Expanding Legal Education

The new center will introduce a business law clinic that allows law students to acquire practical experience by assisting community members who may lack the resources to hire private attorneys. This initiative marks a significant shift from the school’s traditionally litigation-focused clinics.

Dean Patricia Roberts emphasized that this initiative will enable students to concentrate on the foundational aspects of business law, including its setup and sustainability. “Having several faculty members with expertise in business law enhances this initiative’s potential,” she said.

New Opportunities for Students

Currently, St. Mary’s offers five specialized law clinics focusing on various fields, including consumer protection, criminal justice, family law, immigration, and real estate. The introduction of the business law clinic aligns with rising student interest in business law, an area that Roberts notes has consistently high enrollment in related courses.

Second-year student Dakota Nichols anticipates the collaboration between the new clinic and existing ones, explaining how interconnected cases will benefit from the diverse expertise available within the school’s programs.

Addressing Community Needs

The transactional law clinic aims to support small businesses and nonprofits within the community, providing legal assistance for business formation and compliance. “This clinic will be pivotal in helping those who cannot afford legal services navigate the complexities of starting and maintaining a business,” Roberts stated.

Connection with Local Developments

The establishment of the Bock Center coincides with the recent launch of a new business court in San Antonio, aimed at addressing the needs of growing enterprises. Although not directly related, Roberts indicated that there could be opportunities for collaboration, fostering a link between the center and the court system.

Funding and Future Plans

The donated funds will not only create the business law center but also allocate $2 million towards a scholarship fund named after Bock, aimed at supporting law students interested in business and entrepreneurship. This initiative will help cover costs associated with clinical experiences and unpaid internships, facilitating valuable learning opportunities.

With the leadership for the center already appointed, operations are expected to begin by fall, making this an exciting time for both the school and its students.