The New York State Judicial Institute is pleased to sponsor the
New York Legal Education Opportunity Program (NY LEO).
The New York Legal Education Opportunity Program is designed to prepare students entering law school with the tools needed for academic success in law school. Through an intense five-week summer program, NY LEO assists college graduates in acquiring the fundamental and practical skills necessary to succeed in law school. The NY LEO Program is administered by the Honorable Kathie E. Davidson, Dean of the New York State Judicial Institute and Salihah R. Denman, J.D., LL.M., Director of NY LEO. All classes and activities are administered and implemented at the New York State Judicial Institute. Students live on the Judicial Institute’s campus and participate in the program full-time. Experienced law professors provide instruction in first-year law school core courses as well as in legal research, writing and analysis. As part of the program, NY LEO Fellows will also have the opportunity to visit courts in session and meet with members of the judiciary and other legal professionals.
Since 2007, the NY LEO Program has assisted college graduates that are from groups traditionally underrepresented in the law in acquiring the fundamental and practical skills necessary to succeed in law school. The program is available to qualified candidates who are residents of New York State.
2025 NY LEO Application Announcement
2025 NY LEO Fellow Application