Membership

All UNTDCOL registered 2L, 2E, 3L, 3E, and 4E law students in good academic standing may apply for membership. Membership in this student honor organization is limited to those students demonstrating both 1) excellence in advocacy and 2) dedication to the continued development of advocacy skills.

Invitations for membership are extended once per academic year based upon an application process. The Board of Advocates Faculty Advisory Committee determines the finalists for membership. The outgoing Executive Board then conducts interviews of finalists and submits proposed recommendations for membership invitations to the Faculty Advisor. The Faculty Advisory Committee then conducts a final vote on which applicants shall receive a membership invitation.

There is no minimum or maximum number of Board of Advocates members. The number of invitations extended is based upon various factors, including but not limited to the size of the student body, number of membership applications, and the existing size and needs of the Board of Advocates.

No, there is no process for automatic membership invitations. While some accomplishments may receive a large amount of weight, all students must still apply for membership.

The application for Board of Advocates membership emphasizes excellence in advocacy, commitment to the mission of the Board of Advocates, and academic standing. Activities awarded significant consideration include:

1. Membership on interscholastic teams.

2. Participation in tryouts for interscholastic teams.

3. Participation and performance in intramural competitions.

4. Participation and performance in the administration of the UNT Dallas College of Law’s intramural competitions.

5. Performance in advocacy-based classes.

6. Prior volunteer service and attendance at Board of Advocates events.

The Board of Advocates is an honorary organization and membership denotes that a student has received that honor. Selection for membership is itself a benefit. Additionally, remaining a member in good standing each year of membership is recognized through a gold cord worn with graduation regalia. Members receive networking opportunities; the opportunity to participate on Per Say, a podcast sponsored by the Board of Advocates; and points on the Order of the Barristers application.

Members are responsible for fulfilling competition assistance and service hour requirements. Members of the Board of Advocates must compete in or participate in the facilitation, organization, or planning of no less than two (2) competitions per academic year. Members must also complete sixteen (16) hours of service each academic year. Time spent assisting with competitions may count toward both the competition assistance and service hour requirements.