"Excellence through knowledge, Achievement through Commitment"

DETAILED INFORMATION FOR JURIS DOCTOR DEGREE

Before applying for admission to law school applicants MUST investigate the requirements for admission to the practice of law in the jurisdictions in which they intend to practice.

Read the REQUIRED DISCLOSURE STATEMENTS

Business & Professions Code Section 6061.7(a)

Attrition Rate

Pre-Application Counseling

Pre-application counseling is encouraged for those interested in learning more about Pacific West College of Law. This will provide personal insight into the admissions process, admission criteria, academic standards, and many other concerns confronting entering and transfer students.

All applicants are encouraged to seek pre-application counseling. This is an opportunity for applicants to ask questions or express concerns related to law school entry. It will provide specific insight into admission requirements, the application process, and all aspects of law school. All applicants are encouraged to visit an actual class so that they may see exactly how Pacific West conducts its classes and they can ask questions from the Professor and students.

ADMISSIONS POLICY - J.D. DEGREE

Our students come from widely varied cultural and educational backgrounds. Pacific West College of Law is committed to providing equal opportunity to study law hence admission decisions are made without regard to sex, race, color, ancestry, religious creed, national origin, disability, medical condition, age, mental state, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or veteran status. The vast majority of new students are those who have already spent time in the job market. All students are encouraged to work during their time in law school.

Applicants seeking admission at Pacific West College are evaluated based on an individual basis such as 1.) an applicant's potential for law study which is determined by the content and level of his or her prior academic endeavors 2.) life-time experience and achievements in his or her professional career 3.) the Law Students Admission Test (LSAT) references [if any] (New students are recommended to take The Law School Admission Test (LSAT), it is however not mandatory) and 4.) the admissions interview or personal interview designed to determine motivational factors, strength and weaknesses of a particular applicant. These factors are considered under a totality of circumstances on a case to case basis.

Transfer Applicants

Applications from students who wish to transfer from other law school are considered according to individual merit and potential to continue the study of law. For students who were disqualified for academic reasons at a prior law school, credit should be granted only for courses in which the student received a grade of 2.00 or better for bar tested courses (Pacific West Curriculum indicates what are bar-tested courses *) and a 1.50 (C-) in all other courses. For students who were in good standing at the prior law school, credit will be granted for all passing grades. For all applicants who have passed the First-Year Law Students’ Examination, credit will be allowed in Torts, Contracts, and Criminal Law or a credit of one year of their first year law study completed. Many students wanting a second chance at law school have found success at Pacific West College of Law.

Applicants interested in Pacific West College of Law should contact the Administrative Office to reserve a seat.

Application Deadlines

Applicants should complete their files and registration with the Admissions Office as soon as possible, but applications will be accepted through the first day of the fall or spring semester.

Board of Admission

The Board of Admissions will consider each applicant soon after all necessary items have been submitted to the Admissions Office.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS - J.D. DEGREE

For the Jurisprudence Doctorate in Law (JD) degree a student must have a Bachelors Degree or 60 semester units transferable per Education Code Requirements as a pre-requisite.

Applicants for admission to the Juris Doctor Degree at Pacific West College of Law must qualify under one of the following categories.

A.) Degree Regular Applicant

An applicant who has previously earned a Bachelor's Degree from a qualified institution.

B.) Non-Degree Regular Applicant

1. An applicant who has completed an Associate Degree from a qualified institution.

2. An applicant who has completed a minimum of 60 semester units of which 90% are applicable toward a Bachelor's Degree from a qualified institution, and whose cumulative grade point average is at or above the requirement for graduation from that institution. The pre-legal education obtained MUST satisfy the requirements pursuant to Business and Professions Code Section 6060.

If student is unsure if they satisfy the pre-legal education requirements pursuant to Business and Professions Code Section 6060, a student MUST have their transcript evaluated by the State Bar of California click here and here

Students may also use Credential Evaluation Services from various Credential Evaluation Institutions recommended by the State Bar of California click here

Applicants who enter under this category maybe eligible for the Bachelor of Science in Law Degree at the end of their Third Year in Law School and upon completion of 70 semester units at Pacific West College of Law by submitting a petition to the office of the Dean. The student must then complete the remaining units required to earn the Juris Doctorate Degree and become eligible to take the California Bar.

EVALUATION OF PRE-LEGAL EDUCATION

CBE Information and Form Regarding the Evaluation of Pre-Legal Education

Students contemplating beginning law study who are unsure whether they have the necessary pre-legal education required by Business and Professions Code Section 6060 may file an application for Evaluation of Pre-Legal Education for a determination of their eligibility to begin law study. Law schools may file an application on behalf of a potential student. In order to be accepted for processing, the student or law school must ensure all necessary documents are submitted. These include:

A completed Application for Evaluation of Pre-Legal Education form;
A cashier's check or money order made payable to The State Bar of California for $100; and
All official college transcripts.

C.) Special Student Applicant

An applicant who has successfully passed the three required College Level Equivalency Program (CLEP) test, or such tests as required by the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California. Pacific West College of Law recommends that a prospective student contemplating to attend law school under special student category, they they take the LSAT examination. It is further recommended that a prospective student under this category clears their eligibility to attend law school (pre-legal education requirement) with the Eligibility Department of the Committee of Bar Examiner.

For more information and details about CLEP test please visit their website click here and here

GUIDE FOR PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS REGARDING THEIR PRE-LEGAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

"Information from the Committee of Bar Examiners Website on Pre-legal Education

PRE-LEGAL EDUCATION

Pre-Legal Education, Chapter 3, Rule 4.25

Information and Form Regarding the Evaluation of Pre-Legal Education and Law Study Completed and Contemplated

EVALUATION OF PRE-LEGAL EDUCATION

A completed Application for Evaluation of Pre-Legal Education form;
A cashier's check or money order made payable to The State Bar of California for $100; and
All official college transcripts."

POLICY REGARDING COLLEGE LEVEL EXAMINATION PROGRAM (CLEP)

Rule 4.25(B) OF Title 4, Division 1 of the Rules of The State Bar of California (Admissions Rules)

Applicants who have not completed at least two years of college work in accordance with Rule 4.25(A) of the Admissions Rules and Section 6060(c)(1) of the California Business and Professions Code may satisfy the general education requirements that must be completed prior to beginning law study by attaining a score of 50 or higher on the following College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) examinations, which are administered by the College Board:

1. Under Composition and Literature category, either

College Composition*, or
College Composition and Modular*;

AND

2. Two other examinations, each designed to correspond to full-year courses (6 semester hours each**) or four other examinations, each designed to correspond to semester courses (3 semester hours each*) that can be selected from any of the following subjects:

Composition and Literature (Humanities examination only)
Foreign Language
History and Social Science
Science and Mathematics
Business

Applicants must register to take the CLEP examinations directly with the College Board and request that score reports be forwarded by the College Board to the prospective law schools to which they are seeking admission. Applicants who are either requesting a general education evaluation or pursuing law study under the Committee of Bar Examiners’ Law Office Study program must have the College Board send official score reports to the State Bar’s Office of Admissions in Los Angeles, 845 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90017-2515. The score recipient code for the Office of Admissions is 7165.

Copies of informational brochures and registration forms are available at local colleges and universities, or by contacting: The College Board,

P. O. Box 6600, Princeton, NJ 08541-6600, 800-257-9558, www.collegeboard.org

* Course Title changed effective July 1, 2010

** For the Summary of Credit Recommendations for the CLEP Examinations and further information, please contact The College Board at the above address.

D.) Transfer Student Applicant

An applicant who has previously enrolled in another law school whether or not the applicant completed any units toward a law degree.

Transfer Students Categories:

Admission of Applicants previously disqualified for academic reasons.

Applicants previously disqualified for academic reasons will be granted admission when there is an affirmative showing by the applicant that he or she possesses the requisite ability for the study of law. Such a showing may be made:

(a) At any time, if the applicant presents credible evidence that the prior disqualification was not caused by the applicant’s lack of capacity for the study of law, but resulted from a traumatic event or serious hardship that prohibited the applicant from performing at their normal level, this maybe accomplished by a letter from a Dean or faculty member from the prior law school or explained in a personal statement with corroborating information.; or

(b) After at least two years have elapsed since the disqualification, if the applicant demonstrates that work, study, or other experience during the interim time has resulted in a stronger potential for law study than the applicant exhibited at the time he or she was previously disqualified for academic reasons.

(d) Transfer credit cannot be granted unless the student has passed the First Year Law Students Examination or is exempt therefrom.

(e) Transfer credit shall only be approved by the Dean if it concerns courses completed not more than 27 months before study begins at Pacific west College of Law and only under special circumstances.

(f) Any transfer credit must be by a grade above passing or satisfactory grade as required by CBE Guidelines 5.35 for Guidelines for Unaccredited Law Schools.

POLICY AND PROCEDURE ON COURSE REPETITION

If a failing grade has been received in a required course, that course must be repeated. If a failing grade has been received in the first semester of a 2-semester course a student may not continue into the second semester of that course until he/she has successfully completed the first-semester course. In such instances, the student should also review with an academic counselor his/her status relative to meeting the CBE’s “residence” requirement.

A student who repeats a required course (due to an F) receives the grade earned on the repeat effort only. Grade points, units attempted, and units earned for the prior attempt will not be included in grade-point average (GPA) calculations subsequent to the repeat effort. Nevertheless, such calculations prior to the repeat effort will not be affected. Cumulative units, grade points earned, and grade-point averages will be altered to reflect the repeat effort only at the point at which the course was repeated.

POLICY ON COURSE REPETITION AND AWARDING OF TRANSFER CREDITS

Please refer to the detailed information on Policy on course repetition and awarding of transfer credits pursuant to Juris Doctor Degree Academic Policies. Click here (Please read under COURSE REPETITION AND AWARDING OF CREDITS).

Pacific West College of Law does not have an established transfer or articulation agreement with any other law school.

GUIDE FOR TRANSFER STUDENTS:

EVALUATION OF LAW STUDY COMPLETED AND/OR CONTEMPLATED

Students who are unsure:

if they qualify for or have established exemption from the First-Year Law Students’ Examination;
how much credit they will receive for law study completed; and/or,
how much more law study is required in order to qualify to take the California Bar Examination may file an application for Evaluation of Law Study Completed and/or Contemplated. Law schools may file an application on behalf of a currently enrolled or potential student.

In order to be accepted for processing, the law student must be registered with the State Bar of California’s Office of Admissions and ensure all necessary documents are submitted. These include:

A completed Application for Evaluation of Law Study Completed and/or Contemplated form;
A cashier’s check or money order made payable to The State Bar of California for $100.00;
Official/certified law school transcripts of all law studies completed to the date of the request in the sealed school envelope(s); and
A proposed plan of study, if applicable.

Following receipt of an application for either of the above evaluations, the law student of law school official will be advised in writing of his/her status. An evaluation generally takes three to four weeks to complete. Foreign-educated law students should not use either of these forms, but file an application for registration as a foreign-educated General Applicant.

E.) Visitor Auditing a Class(es)

An individual may enroll in a limited number of classes as a visitor provided that they can demonstrate that they have the ability and knowledge to benefit from the course(s) and will not be detrimental to those regularly enrolled students pursuant to (Admission as Visitor, Auditor or Non-J.D. Degree Candidate of the Guidelines for Unaccredited Law School Rules - Guideline 5.36)

Pacific West regularly invites practicing attorneys to its Trial Practice type programs.

FOREIGN EDUCATED STUDENTS

For prospective students who obtained their pre-legal education and legal education abroad please visit the C.B.E website for more detail. Click here

ADMISSION PROCEDURES

To be considered for admission at Pacific West College of Law, each regular or transfer applicant must complete the following steps. Transfer applicants have additional requirements and should contact the Admissions Office for details.

Application

Submit the Application for Admission obtainable from the Admissions Office or you can download pdf copy in our website. The Application must be accompanied by a $50.00 check or money order made payable to Pacific West College of Law. This Application fee is non-refundable. Since applications are considered as they are completed, it is advisable to submit the completed application well in advance of the upcoming semester.

To initially contact our office regarding application click here [Note that submitting an application online in this page DOES NOT constitute a formal application for admission]. An unofficial copy of transcript(s) may also be submitted for preliminary evaluation purposes. Upon acceptance, OFFICIAL copy or copies of transcript(s) must be submitted.

It is mandatory for every applicants seeking to be admitted at Pacific West College of Law to fill out the pdf copy of Application for Admission Form. Click here to download the form. A completed form with all the required and necessary supporting document MUST be submitted to the Admissions office either via regular mail, attachment to an email or if can also be hand deliver to our office between 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm from Monday to Thursday at the address indicated in our website. Transcripts however MUST be official and sealed.

Transcript

Arrange to have transcripts sent to Pacific West. Provide a certified transcript from each College or University attended. All units attempted, and any Associate, Bachelor and Graduate Degrees earned must be shown.

All transcripts must be certified by the issuing College or University or prior law school.

The school does not give credit for prior learning experience except for allowed transfer credits and pre-legal educational attainment.

Admissions Interview

Call to arrange for a personal interview with the Dean. This is a vital part of the admissions process. The interview may be conducted by telephone for applicants who do not reside within a reasonable distance of the College. This is an important opportunity for Pacific West to learn more about you and your non-quantifiable qualifications. Spouses or parents are invited to participate in this interview.

REGISTRATION PROCEDURES

Registration for Classes

A student should register for classes immediately or during the applicable registration period after receiving the letter of acceptance.

About the Disclosure Statements

The State Bar of California requires that each student sign a disclosure statement prior to the payment of tuition to the school. The Disclosure Statement sets forth the Guideline 11.3 and Guideline 2.3 (D) of the Guidelines for Unaccredited Law School Rules, the required disclosure pursuant to Rule 4.241 (A) (1-9) under the Rules for Registered Unaccredited Law School, the disclosure statements regarding the FYLSE or Baby bar exam. These aforementioned disclosure statements are included in the pdf copy of the Application for Admission and the Enrollment forms and Disclosure Statements. Each student receives a copy of the disclosure statement, and the signed originals are kept in the respective students’ files.

Registration as a Law Student

Admission to the practice of law within the State of California is regulated by the State Bar of California through its Committee of Bar Examiners.

Students are required to register with the State Bar of California within three months after beginning law study. Click here to REGISTER with the State Bar of California.

45-Day Rule

The California Committee of Bar Examiners requires the school to have complete files on each entering student prior to the 45th day after classes begin, if the student is to be permitted to remain in school as a regular student. Every student MUST comply with the 45-day rule in submitting all the necessary and required documents in connection with the attending law school.

Pacific West gives the students 30 DAYS to complete submission of the required documents such as transcript(s), letter of recommendations etc. If not completed within the 30 days, student have the 15 day extension to comply.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION - J.D. DEGREE

GENERAL INFORMATION ON TUITION AND FEES

TUITION AND FEES

Generally, each student who wish to attend Pacific West College of Law are subject to the following fees and charges:

1.) One time application fee of $50.00 which is non-refundable and good for one calendar year. This is a required fee.

Application for admission can be made online click here. Online submission of Application is for Pacific West College internal purposes only. Every prospective student MUST fill out and complete the Application for Admission form and affix their physical signature on the form. The completed Application for Admission Form may be deliver in person to the Office of Admission or it can be mail to our Admission office @ 2011 West Chapman Ave., Orange, CA 92868. The completed application for admission form MUST be accompanied by a $50 Application fee which is non-refundable.

2.) Required fees per semester in the total amount of $315.00 (comprised of Registration fee $150.00, Library fee $150.00 and SSA fee $15.00). These are required fees good for one semester and are non-refundable.

3.) Tuition fee @ $350.00/unit. A student has to take a minimum of 9 units per regular semester (SPRING or FALL) and 5 or 6 units per SUMMER semester.

Crucial and Important Notice regarding the fees enumerated above as item 1, 2 and 3

Tuition Refund Policy ONLY APPLIES TO ITEM NUMBER 3 – TUITION FEE. Items 1 and 2 are NON REFUNDABLE FEES.

Single Student Classes

In the event that a student desires to take a class as a single student then the tuition for that class shall be doubled.

SEMESTER TUITION AND FEE ESTIMATES

SPRING or FALL Semester Estimates on Total tuition and Fees

Total tuition and fees for a regular semester (SPRING or FALL SEMESTER) is approximately $3,500.00 to $3,700.00 payable either in full or 4 equal installment payments within the entire term of the semester [usually 4 to 4 ½ months].

SUMMER Semester Estimates on Total tuition and Fees

Total tuition and fees for a SUMMER SEMESTER is approximately $2,100.00 to $2,600.00 payable either in full or 4 equal installment payments within the entire term of the semester [usually 2 months].

CASEBOOKS

Students are solely responsible in buying their own books needed for all the classes throughout their entire attendance at Pacific West.

ESTIMATED TOTAL COSTS TO EARN A JURIS DOCTOR DEGREE AT PACIFIC WEST

The estimated total costs for a starting student (freshman) student to earn a Juris Doctor Degree at Pacific West College of Law for 4 years is $36,680 (comprised of $32,900 tuition for 4 years plus $3,780.00 required fees per semester for 4 years). The estimated total costs does not include costs of casebooks which is the sole responsibility of the student.

The estimated total costs to earn a Juris Doctor degree at Pacific West College of Law for a transfer student may vary depending on the total number of remaining units to graduate.

PAYMENT POLICIES

Mode of Payments

PWCL accepts payments by check, cash, debit cards, credit cards such as Master card and Visa cards.

All check payments shall be made payable to Pacific West College of Law.

Debit cards are treated as cash therefore no processing fee is required.

If paying by credit card, a student has to pay card processing fee which is usually 3.5% of the gross amount, charge by the card processing company such as intuit or paypal.

For all payment arrangement please contact or email the VP for Finance at (714) 634-3738 and/or finance@pacificwestcollege.com or at info@pacificwestcollege.com

Manner of Payments

Students’ may opt to pay the tuition and charges in full or by installment.

Deferred Payment Program/Plan

Pacific West College of Law offers a deferred payment program which is available to students who qualify and is subject to initial review of the VP for Finance and a final approval by the Dean of the College.

A $100.00 flat fee is charge for each semester that a student is deferring payment and enrolls under the deferred payment plan.

The student may opt to pay the $100 deferred payment fee upfront (at the time of registration) or the student may elect to add the deferred payment charge to the total amount of tuition and fees to be paid by installments.

Fees Subject to Deferrals under the Deferred Payment Plan

The following fees are subject to deferrals:

1. Tuition Fee

Tuition is calculated on the basis of a semester unit, which is the equivalent of one class hour per week for the period of the semester.

One semester unit is defined as fifteen (15) hours of classroom instruction. Generally, one hour of instruction per week for fifteen (15) weeks equals one semester unit of credit.

Tuition rate is at $350.00/unit for the B.S.L, J.D, LLM’s and M.A.L Degrees.

A student may opt to pay the total tuition upfront (at the time of registration) or a student may elect to add the amount of total tuition dues or fees to the total amount of Semestral fees and deferred payment charge that the student elected to pay by installment.

2. Required Fees per Semester

In addition to tuition fee, each student is required and must pay the total required fees per semester in the amount of $315.00 which constitutes the registration fee ($150.00), the library fee ($150.00) and the SSA fee ($15.00). These fees are payable every semester and are non-refundable.

A student may opt to pay the above semestral fees total of $315.00 upfront or a student may elect to add the amount of total fees to the total amount of tuition and deferred payment charge that the student elected to pay by installment.

3. Deferred Payment Fee/Charge

Payment Deferral Duration

The duration of the deferred payment plan is the entire term of the semester. For regular semester such as SPRING and FALL, duration is usually 4 to 4 ½ months. Duration for SUMMER semester is usually 2 months.

Payment Deferral Terms

Students may elect to pay by installment in the following terms: 4 equal installments, 3 equal installments or 2 equal installments within the term of the semester as stated above in payment deferral duration.

Due Date on Deferrals

Student has the option to select and ascertain the due date of their installment payments by filling up the installment payment form attached to the Enrollment forms and Disclosure Statements that the student has to fill out upon registration and enrollment on every given semester subject to the initial evaluation of the VP for Finance and Administration and subject to the final approval by the Dean of the College.

Application and allocation of Installment Payments for purposes of Refunds

The First installment payment made by a student is first applied towards the satisfaction of the deferred payment fee ($100.00 which is non-refundable) then to the satisfaction of the semestral fees ($315.00 which are non-refundable) then to the late fee, if any, then the rest is applied towards the satisfaction of tuition fees. All subsequent installment payments are applied to the satisfaction of the late fee if any, then to the satisfaction of the tuition due.

Late Fee

If a student is late on tendering payment on the due date indicated and promised by the student in the Installment Payment Form, a 5% late fee or penalty base on the amount of installment past due will be charge if payment is not tender after 3 days from the schedule payment date promised by the student. There is no other grace period other than the 3 days set forth herein.

Petition for Waiver of Late Fee

A petition for exception to this 5% late fee may be made by a student in writing, subject to the initial evaluation of the VP for Finance and final approval by the Dean of the College. Such written petition must be accompanied by a statement of reason and justifiable circumstance. Written petition and its accompanying reasons must be submitted immediately after the 3 day grace period, the latest.

Limitation on Filing Petition for Waiver of Late Fee

Each student is limited to file ONLY ONE petition for exception from 5% penalty per calendar year. Such filing of petition however, DOES NOT GUARANTEE approval for a waiver of the said late fee. The College can deny the petition without cause or explanation and solely based on upon the College discretion.

A 10-day delay of any Installment Payment

A 10-day payment delay or a 10 late payment of any installment amount due will render the entire account balance DUE AND DEMANDABLE.

RESERVATION OF RIGHTS

Pacific West College of Law reserves the rights to 1) deny petition for exception on the late fee without due cause 2) to change the mode and methods of payments 3) to revoke a prior approval of Installment payment plan granted to a student if the College deemed that such revocation of approval is necessary and futile to preserve the College financial interest due to a students’ breach of contractual promise to pay or if the student dishonor the term of the payment plan due to non-payment for more than 10 days 4) to change the rate of tuition and other fees without prior notice.

WITHDRAWAL, CANCELLATION AND REFUND POLICIES

The law school shall disclose all fees and fee-related policies and procedures to be required of students and provide copies of all information to be given to students relating to and regarding tuition, fees, and refunds. All disclosures shall comply with the provisions of Section 18809, Title 5, Division 21 of the California Administrative Code and the Reform Act of 1989, section 94342.

Pacific West College of Law has volunteered to follow the Provisions of this act until replaced or supplemented with rules and regulations by the Committee of Bar Examiners.

Effective January 1, 2008, Pacific West College of Law had adopted and integrated Division 2 Rule 2.2(B) of the Guidelines for Unaccredited Law School Rules on its tuition refund policies in addition to the provision of Section 18809 above.

WITHDRAWAL AND CANCELLATION POLICIES

What Constitute an Effective Notice of Cancellation and Withdrawal by a Student?

Only written notification of withdrawal from class (es) will be honored.

When does withdrawal or Cancellation notification become effective?

The withdrawal notification is effective upon receipt by the College.

When will the College disburse or pays out any refunds to the student?

Tuition refunds will be processed within thirty (30) days of receipt of notification.

What circumstances the College deemed Cancellation or withdrawal for purposes of refunds?

Refunds are available only upon written notification of discontinuance of class work.

If a student withdraws before attending classes, all tuition paid for that semester will be refunded. If a student withdraws after attending class (es), tuition will be refunded in accordance with the refund schedule set forth below.

Dismissals are treated the same as withdrawals for refund purposes. All refunds will be made within thirty (30) days after the dismissal. Refunds for dismissed students are handled the same way as students withdrawn without attendance. Refunds will be calculated according to the Tuition Refund Schedule set forth below:

TUITION REFUND POLICY

If a student cancels registration after attending classes, monies will be refunded in accordance with the following schedule:

% of Attendance Time

How Does Tuition refund works on an Installment Payment Plan?

In determining AMOUNT OF TUITION REFUND based on an Installment payments made by a student, the Application and allocation of Installment payment policy provided herein solely governs.

If a student who opted to pay by installment payment, tender an effective written withdrawal or cancellation within the time frame of attendance stated in the Tuition Refund Policy schedule or in the middle of paying off the installment payment plan, the amount to which the calculation of the percentage of TUITION REFUND will be based upon is the NET AMOUNT OF THE MONIES PAIDunder the payment plan as of the date of the effectivity of the withdrawal or cancellation.

Meaning the total amount of monies paid by a student under the payment plan as of the effective date of the withdrawal or cancellation DEDUCTED by the deferred payment fee of $100.00, DEDUCTED by the $315.00 required fees per semester and DEDUCTED by any late fees incurred before the tender of withdrawal or cancellation. The resulting amount would be the NET AMOUNT to which calculation of percentage of TUITION REFUND will be based upon.

Illustrative Sample of Tuition Refund Calculations based on Tuition Refund Policy Schedule

Given Problem:

Student A opted 4 equal installment plan as follows:

1st installment payment - $900.00 due on 1st month

2nd Installment payment - $900.00 due on 2nd month

3rd Installment payment - $900.00 due on 3rd month

Final Installment payment - $900.00 due on 4th month

Simulated Circumstance:

Student A paid the first installment payment of $900 on the first month of the semester. Then on the second month, student A tendered a written notice of withdrawal which was received by the College and was deemed effective at that time. In calculating the amount of refund to Student A, the following computation is to be applied:

Given Factors for mathematical Formula:

Let Q stand for: NET AMOUNT to which calculation of Tuition refund will be based upon

Let X stand for: Total amount of monies paid under the payment plan as of the effective date of withdrawal

Let Y stands for: Deferred payment charge of $100.00

Let Z stands for: Total required fees per semester of $315.00 (Registration, Library and SSA fees)

Mathematical Equation:

Q = X-Y-Z

Given Value:

Q = $900-$100-$315

Q = $485

Determination of % of Attendance time based on Tuition Refund Schedule

Determine the TUITION REFUND schedule suited for the given simulation. One month attendance in a 4 ½ months for a regular semester class session is within 10-25% attendance time.

% of Attendance Time

As Related to

Course Hours/Semester

10% - 25%

Total Maximum Amount

Charged

25%

Minimum Amount

of Refund

75%

Calculation of the Amount of Tuition Refund to Student A:

As Related to

Course Hours/Semester

10% - 25%

Total Maximum Amount

Charged

$121.25 $363.75

Minimum Amount

of Refund

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

No Federal or State Loans

Pacific West College of Law does NOT have any Federal or State loans.

TUITION DISCOUNTS AND SCHOLARSHIP OFFERS

Tuition Discounts

The College is currently offering the following tuition discounts for qualified applicants:

A) A twenty-five percent (25%) tuition discount will be awarded to one qualified applicant on his or her first year tuition. The qualified applicant will be selected from a group consisting of at least three students who were referred to Pacific West College of Law by any two or four-year California College or University. Before an applicant is considered, he or she must undergo an Admission Interview of Pacific West College of Law. This scholarship applies only to first-year law students.

B) Qualified applicants who are recommended for admission (sponsor) by a current member of the Board of Directors of Pacific West shall receive a fifty percent (50%) tuition discount referred to as “Director Scholarship” for the student’s entire time at Pacific West. Each director may have only one such appointee enrolled at one time. The Director’s consent is a must which may be done orally or in writing and remains effective until revoked by the Director. Notice of revocation may be done orally or in writing. Such notice must be communicated to the Chairman of the Board to take effect.

Tuition discounts can be used with any other discounts or scholarship offers.

Scholarships from Outside Sources

Pacific West is currently seeking scholarship contributions from different agencies, organizations and individuals. As funds become available, students will be informed of scholarship offers.

Students are encouraged to compete for the various law school grants available to the public. Occasionally independent law Firms and legal offices sends Scholarship opportunities to Pacific West College of Law. Such information on the outside independent scholarship opportunities are posted in the Law School's Bulletin Board to equally disseminate the scholarship opportunity information to all the students.

JURIS DOCTOR DEGREE CURRICULUM

JURIS DOCTOR CURRICULUM [Lex Genesis/Lex Excellence Programs]

The curriculum is designed to develop within each student a firm understanding of essential legal principles and skills through basic required courses. In addition, the curriculum provides an opportunity for the students to explore many areas of the law and to develop the ability to write a legal pleadings and legal memoranda and to develop a trial skills needed in the practice of the legal profession.

JURIS DOCTOR DEGREE - COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Required Courses

Appellate Advocacy

REQUIRED (3 UNITS)

It explores the Appellate processes and pleadings and the theory and practice of appellate type work concerning the formation and analyzing of issues found in appellate practice. The class teaches performance exam style writing.

Students are given cases and assigned to write a trial memorandums or memoranda.

Business Organizations I & II*

REQUIRED (6 UNITS)

Agency & partnership; Establishment and termination of the relationship; scope of the agency; liabilities arising there from; disclosed and undisclosed principals; express agencies, ostensible agencies, and agencies by ratification. Corporations; Nature of, promotion and formation; issues of shares, initially and later; scope of authorized transactions; management’s role in corporate government; share holders’ roles; derivative suits; dividends; purchase and redemption of shares and capital reduction; fundamental changes through sale of assets, merger, consolidation and amendments to articles; dissolution. Also covers forms of non-incorporated business associations.

Civil Procedures I & II*

REQUIRED (6 UNITS)

General principles of pleading, joinder, discovery, and adjudication without trial; state and federal jurisdiction and venue; trial and appeal of civil actions; res judicata and collateral estoppel.

These courses are general overview of the customary procedures in a lawsuit from its commencement to its conclusion.

Civil Procedure III

REQUIRED (3 UNITS)

This course emphasizes on the Civil forms and procedures used in the practice of Civil law. It focuses on Motions and Arbitration such as Arbitration briefs, Settlement Conferences, Provisional Remedies, Writ of attachment and Injunctions.

The selection and drafting of forms for a variety of civil matters and practical application of civil procedure from client interview to arbitration, including summary judgment.

Community Property*

REQUIRED (2 UNITS)

The classification of separate and community property for the management and control of the community, liability for debts, and problems arising from the dissolution of the community.

Constitutional Law I & II*

REQUIRED (6 UNITS)

Judicial review, Immunities of Federal and State governments, federal delegated powers and reserved state powers, federal powers as limitation on state powers, individual rights as limiting federal and state powers.

Contracts I & II*

REQUIRED (6 UNITS)

The law relating to formation of contracts, the Statute of Frauds, third party beneficiary contracts, assignment of rights and delegation of duties, liability for breach of contract including the law of conditions and discharge, and other related problems.

Complex Theories of Law I & II**

REQUIRED (6 UNITS)

Complex Theories of Law I is a comparative study of the similarities and differences of Contracts, Torts and Criminal Law.

Complex Theories of Law II is a comparative study of Civil and Criminal Law that focuses emphasis on the student’s competency in both legal editing and legal writing.

Criminal Law*

REQUIRED (3 UNITS)

Fundamentals of the substantive law of crime, punishable acts and omissions, requisite intent, legal defenses, liability for conspiracy and attempt, enforcement of the law.

Criminal Procedure*

REQUIRED (3 UNITS)

This course emphasizes in motions preparations such as 995 motions and 1538.5 motions. It also covers practice and procedures on preliminary hearings, pre-trial hearings and arraignments.

Evidence I & II*

REQUIRED (6 UNITS)

The law relating to relevancy and materiality, privileged communications, the hearsay rule and its exceptions, the opinion rules; authentication and the best evidence rule; impeachment and rehabilitation; presumptions and burden of proof; parol evidence rule.

Legal Analysis I**

REQUIRED (3 UNITS)

Provides a threshold for logical and creative legal thinking and writing for legal practice. The first semester focuses on legal theory, statutory analysis and case analysis. Subsequent work emphasizes a practical approach that develops legal research skills and the ability to write objectively and persuasively.

Legal Analysis II

REQUIRED (3 UNITS)

The second semester focuses on legal research; methods of legal analysis, search methods for deferral and state statutes, for judicial precedents in digests, encyclopedias, text- books, legal periodicals, loose-leaf reporting services, case reports, and problems in their use.

It requires students to conduct Client interview and draft client information form. It also requires students to write pleadings such as Complaints and Answer to Complaints.

Professional Responsibility*

REQUIRED (3 UNITS)

An examination of relevant codes and cases in an attempt to better understand a lawyer’s ethical obligations and conflicts.

Real Property I & II*

REQUIRED (6 UNITS)

The law relating to the various types of real property interests including freehold and non-freehold estate and future interest; the Statute of uses; con-current ownership of land, adverse possession; the methods of transferring title to land, including the law of delivery and acceptance; recording statutes; covenants running with the land and equitable servitude, easements and profits.

Remedies I & II*

REQUIRED (6 UNITS)

The theory and practice of the law relating to the various forms of legal and equitable relief, including various measures of damages for both tort and contract cases; specific forms of relief such as replevin, ejectment and specific performance; injunctive relief; and legal and equitable forms of restitutionary remedies.

Torts I & II*

REQUIRED (6 UNITS)

An examination of civil liability independent of contracts. A wide variety of torts will be examined under the basis of intentional, strict liability or negligent conduct.

Trial Practice I

REQUIRED (3 UNITS)

This course consists of 16 weeks of law and motions, hearing practices and training in trial techniques through participation in practice court sessions.

It requires students to write motions and pleadings such Summary Judgment, motion on the pleadings, motion to dismiss, motion to compel, demur motion to strike.

Students participate in all phases of civil and criminal cases and are required to do both moving and opposing papers for each motion and argue the said motions for both prosecution and defense. Preliminary hearings will also be discussed and arguments are presented.

Trial Practice II

REQUIRED (3 UNITS)

This course consists of two tier programs; the first tier is lectures with an emphasis on trial techniques and etiquettes. The second tier is actual trials covering both civil and criminal cases ranging from a misdemeanor case(s) to 3 strikes felony cases.

Depending on class size and time, Jury Trials should be utilized. Lectures should cover:

1. Jury selection

2. Opening statement

3. Direct examination

4. Cross examination

5. Demonstrative evidence

6. Closing arguments

7. Judicial notice

8. Expert witnesses

9. Motion for new Trial

Trusts*

REQUIRED (3 UNITS)

The law relating to the creation of the trust relationship; charitable trusts; resulting and constructive trusts; the powers and duties of the trustee; alteration and termination of the trust; and remedies for breaches of trust.

Uniform Commercial Code*

REQUIRED (3 UNITS)

The interpretation and application of the law of sales (UCC Article 2); and the law relating to contract formation, enforcement, performance and breach when there is a transaction in goods. Includes buyers’ and sellers’ remedies, and the law of warranties.

Wills*

REQUIRED (2 UNITS)

The law relating to intestate succession; testamentary capacity and intent, the formalities of execution, alteration, revocation of wills and the problems of distribution.

Elective Courses

Note: Not all Elective courses are taught each year but are offered from time to time as the schedule allows and student interest demands.

Administrative Law

ELECTIVE (3 UNITS)

The law relating to the establishment and control of administrative agencies, including administrative process, policy and procedure.

Clinical Education

ELECTIVE (6 UNITS)

Practical training involving actual client relations under close direction of a super-vising attorney. Covering a wide spectrum of legal areas, this course helps bridge the gap between law school and the actual practice of law.

This can be taken 3 semester units at a time equivalent to 45 hours.

APPLIED LEGAL CLINICAL EDUCATION

Applied Legal Clinical Education commonly referred as 'Legal Clinic" is offered by Pacific West as an Elective. Most of our students opted for an externship as part of their legal clinic.

A. PACIFIC WEST Clinical Programs External Clinic (Legal Clinic)

Students work in PACIFIC WEST-approved public-service organizations and in law offices under the supervision guidelines set forth in Guidelines for Unaccredited Law School Section 5.8.

B. Participation

1. A student must have completed 18 units before commencing work in a clinical education program.

2. A student must seek the approval of the Dean of Academics or Dean of Students, in advance or prior to registration.

3. It may be necessary for clinic students to be certified by the State Bar of California. All clinic students will incur a slight charge for this service, payable to the State Bar of California.

The elective legal clinic would be held at an off-site practicing attorney’s office or the District Attorney’s office or the Public Defender’s office. This would expose students to law office management and actual practice experience.

Guideline 5.8 Externship, Clinical, Law Review and Similar Programs

If a law school has a program that permits student participation in studies or activities that are not taught by a faculty member (such as externships or clinical programs) or in a format that does not involve participation regular scheduled courses (such as law review), the time spent in such studies or activities may be included as satisfying the hours requirements of Guideline 5.3, if the following conditions are met:

(A) The credit allowed must be commensurate with the time and effort expended by, and the educational benefits to, the participating student;

(B) The studies or activities must be approved in advance;

(C) A member of the faculty must supervise and periodically review each student’s participation, to ensure that the educational objectives are achieved;

(D) The amount of credit may not exceed 40% of the hourly requirement for any year or more than 10% of the total hours required for graduation.

The law school must maintain a record for each student, including at least the educational objectives, the number of hours spent by the student participating activity, the amount of academic credit authorized, the name of the faculty member who conducted or reviewed the activity, the name, address, telephone number, and qualifications of each person not on the faculty who directly supervise the student participating in the activity, the method used to evaluate student performance, and all other records required under these guidelines.

Entertainment Law

ELECTIVE (3 UNITS)

Overview of the relationships between artist and personal manager, artist and artist’s manager / agent and artist and motion picture producer. It emphasizes on doctrines that affords protection for creative works including the right of publicity, unfair competition, copyrights, trademarks, patents and performer’s rights and protection of titles, characters and ideas.

Family Law

ELECTIVE (3 UNITS)

Family status, including marriage, divorce, annulment and separation; right and obligations of parent and child; property and support rights and agreements.

Immigration Law

ELECTIVE (3 UNITS)

The law relating to enforcement agencies, admission requirements, exclusion processes elements of deportation, aliens, citizen- ship, naturalization and customs.

Law & Medical Field

ELECTIVE (3 UNITS)

Explores areas in which law interacts with medical field, including constitutional law issues relating to medical practices and procedures, doctor-patient privileges, testifying as a medical expert, medical malpractice issues, forensic medicines issues and psychiatric diagnosis intertwined with criminal and civil cases.

Native Americans and the Law

ELECTIVE (3 UNITS)

An anthropological, historical and legal study of the American Indian, including a focus on traditional American Indian law and values, federal policy and current legal issues. Students will consider competing claims to jurisdiction by state, federal and tribal governments, treaties and abrogation thereof, civil rights of tribal members, powers of tribal self government, water, fishing and hunting rights, Indian education programs, and patterns of Indian property ownership.

Sports and Talent Law

ELECTIVE (3 UNITS)

Provides an overview of sports law and talent law from the perspective of performers’ rights and duties as contrasted with owners’ rights and duties.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO STUDENTS

* Indicates Bar-Tested Courses/Subjects

** Indicates that a transfer student who is exempt from the FYLSE will be able to take Externship (Legal Clinic - maximum of 6 units or electives in lieu of this courses**.

** Indicates that a first year student who passed the FYLSE his/her first attempt will be able to take Externship (Legal Clinic - maximum of 6 units or electives in lieu of this courses(**).

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS FOR JURIS DOCTOR DEGREE

Jurisprudence Doctorate (J.D.) Degree

The Juris Doctor degree is awarded to those students who successfully earn 94 semester units with a minimum GPA of 2.00, including required and elective courses, and meet the residency requirements of the California Committee of Bar Examiners.

Pacific West will not confer a Juris Doctor Degree on a student who DOES NOT successfully complete the 94 semester units required for Juris Doctor degree.

Pacific West College of Law has adopted the 80% Attendance Policy click here for detailed information and for the consequences for failure to attend 80% attendance.

California General Bar Exam

A student who earns a Juris Doctorate from Pacific West College of Law and meets the requirements of the Committee of Bar Examiners may sit for the California General Bar Exam.

CBE REQUIREMENTS

California State Bar Requirements

It is the student’s responsibility to comply with the rules of the Committee of Bar Examiners and to comply with the Admission requirements to practice law in California. Failure to comply could have unfortunate and sever consequences.

For detailed information about CBE Admission Requirements as a Law Student. A student MUST visit the State Bar of California website click here

For detailed information about Admission Requirements to Practice Law in California, a student MUST visit the State Bar of California website.

Click here

FOREIGN EDUCATED STUDENTS

For prospective students who obtained their pre-legal education and legal education abroad please visit the C.B.E website for more detail. Click here

OTHER POLICIES OF PACIFIC WEST COLLEGE OF LAW

Academic Policies - J.D. Degree

Attendance Policy

Petition Policy

Non Discrimination Policy

Testing Accommodation Policy

ADA Policy

Substance Abuse Policy