Empowering future leaders. Advancing scholarship.

Washburn Law's Business and Transactional Law Center is a pivotal resource for aspiring transactional lawyers, providing unparalleled opportunities to develop the skills necessary to succeed in today's complex business law environment. By fostering a collaborative community of students, faculty, alumni and legal professionals, the Center equips students with the practical experience and knowledge to excel in their careers.
Bridging theory and practice in business law

Commitment to offering skills-based training

At the heart of Washburn Law's Business and Transactional Law Center is a commitment to offering skills-based training, presenting enriching programming, and opening new scholarly opportunities for faculty and students. The center's mission is to prepare students to be effective transactional lawyers who can adeptly represent clients engaged in business enterprises. "Transactional" work encompasses tasks such as structuring transactions, drafting documents, conducting due diligence, and providing regulatory advice—skills that are distinct from litigation and require specialized training.
student and professor talking at table in mock trial classroom

Hands-on opportunities

The center addresses the gap in traditional legal education by providing hands-on experiences that bring classroom theories to life. Through its diverse offerings, students gain a deeper understanding of legal principles as they apply to real-world business contexts. This experiential learning approach not only enhances their academic knowledge but also hones the practical skills essential for transactional law practice.

Students and professor in mock courtroom class

Unifying practitioners & future leaders

As an intellectual catalyst, the center unites professors, students, alumni and practicing attorneys dedicated to advancing business and transactional law. This collaboration fosters a rich academic environment where scholarly contributions and practical applications intersect, driving the field forward. The center's frequent events and programs create a vibrant community for students interested in business law, offering numerous opportunities for engagement and professional development.

Ultimately, the Center's initiatives ensure that Washburn Law students are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of business law, making significant contributions to the field and effectively serving their future clients.

student and professor talking in balcony area of SOL building lobby

Student professionalism program

A program sponsored by the Kansas Bar Association
The Student Professionalism Program, a collaboration between Washburn Law and the Kansas Bar Association, provides students with opportunities to attend continuing legal education programs. This initiative helps bridge the gap between academic theory and professional practice. By observing and interacting with practicing lawyers, students gain a clearer understanding of professionalism and lifelong learning in the legal field. The program also exposes students to areas of law not covered in depth during their coursework, broadening their legal knowledge and practical skills.
A law student gestures while holding a coffee thermos and talking.

Supporting law students' interests

A program designed for business & transactional law students
The center supports students through a comprehensive business and transactional law program, offering hands-on training and specialized curricula. Students can earn certificates in business and transactional law or workplace law, demonstrating their commitment to these fields. The center also sponsors the Transactional Law Meet Competition, giving students practical experience in drafting and negotiation. Student organizations, such as the Washburn Business Law Society, Tax and Estate Planning Association, Washburn Intellectual Property Law Society and the Real Estate Law Society, provide additional avenues for engagement and professional growth. Clinical experiences and dual degree options further enhance students’ readiness for their future careers.
A professor talks with a group of students studying together in the library.

Meet Haley Wiercinski: 2024-25 Student Fellow

Haley Wiercinski (she/her) is a second-year law student at Washburn University School of Law. Though originally from the Kansas City area, she graduated with a BS in Political Science from Arizona State University. Along with being the 2024-2025 Business and Transactional Law Center Fellow, she is also a Moot Court Council Member and the treasurer for Washburn Law’s Rainbow Bar.
Haley Wiercinski
Practitioners & scholars in residence
The Practitioners in Residence program brings leading business lawyers to Washburn Law, allowing students to learn directly from top professionals in the field. These practitioners share their real-world experiences through lectures, classes, and one-on-one interactions, providing invaluable insights into the practice of transactional law. Past practitioners have enriched students' understanding of complex legal concepts and practical applications.
The scholars in residence program invites distinguished academics to spend an extended period at Washburn Law, engaging with students and faculty. These scholars contribute to the academic community through presentations, discussions and collaborative research. Past scholars have offered fresh perspectives and fostered a deeper understanding of business and transactional law.
Business & Transactional Law Center faculty

Amy Deen Westbrook

Center Director
Amy Westbrook

Clarissa Harvey

Visiting Assistant Professor
Clarissa Harvey

Patricia L. Judd

Professor of Law
Patricia L. Judd

Lori A. McMillan

Professor of Law
Lori A. McMillan

Mary Kreiner Ramirez

Professor of Law
Mary Kreiner Ramirez