Dr. Kathryn Fort

Professor

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Biography

Kathryn E. Fort is the Director of Clinics at Michigan State University College of Law, specializing in Indian law through her role as Director of the Indian Law Clinic. She teaches a clinic class focusing on federal Indian law and has initiated the Indian Child Welfare Act Appellate Project, where she represents tribes in complex ICWA litigation across the country. Prof. Fort is a published author in the field, having written 'American Indian Children Law,' published by Carolina Academic Press, and has contributed to notable journals including the Harvard Public Health Review and the George Mason Law Review. She has also co-edited critical works addressing the Indian Child Welfare Act and has been an original contributor to the Indian law blog, Turtle Talk. Her significant legal experience includes direct representation of tribes in numerous high-profile court cases, including the United States Supreme Court. An established expert in her field, Prof. Fort holds a J.D. from the Michigan State University College of Law and a B.A. in History from Hollins University, graduating magna cum laude. Her work also involves training law students in appellate cases, promoting the representation of tribal communities in the legal system.

Research Interests

Experience

Director Clinics

— Present

Michigan State University College of Law • East Lansing, MI

Oversaw the Indian Law Clinic and taught clinic classes, focusing on federal Indian law and related legal services.

Requirements for Michigan State University College of Law

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.73
TOEFL
Listening
Required:17
Reading
Required:17
Writing
Required:17
Speaking
Required:17
Total
Required:79
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
Duolingo
Overall Score
Required:110
Overall
Required:110
PTE
Listening
Required:48
Reading
Required:48
Writing
Required:48
Speaking
Required:48
Overall
Required:53
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a 4-year accredited institution
Application Checklist
  • LSAC Credential Assembly Service (CAS) registration
  • LSAT Score (Valid within 5 years)
  • Official Transcripts
  • Personal Statement (2-3 pages)
  • Professional Resume
  • Two letters of recommendation (up to four accepted)
  • Application Fee ($75)
  • Character & Fitness Disclosures
Specialization Notes

The Juris Doctor (JD) is the primary professional degree. Admission is based on LSAT scores, academic record, and professional accomplishments. Median LSAT for Fall 2025 was 162.