The Small Business Law Center (SBLC) supports small businesses and non-profits while providing skills development for law students. TJSL students, under the direct supervision of California licensed attorneys, provide legal assistance to micro-entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profits that do not have the means to hire an attorney to advise them.
The SBLC opened its doors January 2012 and is currently accepting requests for services from potential clients. The ideal client will have at least an outline of a business plan and a willingness to work with law students.
The SBLC provides legal assistance in the following areas:
- business formation
- nonprofit tax exemption
- contract review and negotiation
- commercial leasing
- subsidized property transactions
- permitting and licensing
- employment issues
- copyright and trademark registration
The SBLC provides a wide variety of legal assistance, but does not represent clients in court. The SBLC is not able to accommodate walk-in requests at this time.
In order to qualify for representation, a potential client will be required to make financial disclosures for the SBLC to determine eligibility. To find out if you are eligible for our services, please complete the Request for Services Form and email or fax it to the contact information listed below. For more information about our services, please call 619.961.4382.
Students who participate in the SBLC will assist clients by forming business entities, drafting, negotiating and reviewing contracts, and guiding clients through the regulatory process. The SBLC clinical experience will provide students with practical opportunities to develop skills in problem solving, client development, drafting and critical thinking. Download more information on eligibility and the application process.
The SBLC also offers students not enrolled in the clinic an opportunity to earn pro bono hours. The SBLC maintains a language database that includes students who fluently speak or write a language other than English. These students will be asked to assist in translating documents and interpreting legal information for potential clients. Students who participate in the Language Database are required to attend a training held once per semester and will be called to participate as needed. If you are interested in being included in this Language Database, please email the Language Database Application and a current resume to the SBLC at sblc@tjsl.edu.
Small Business Law Center
495 Eleventh Avenue
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619.961.4382
Fax: 619.961.1382
Email: sblc@tjsl.edu
http://www.tjsl.edu/clinics/sblc
