Dr. Vivek Sankaran

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Vivek S. Sankaran is a Clinical Professor of Law at the University of Michigan Law School, focusing on child welfare and family law. He directs the Child Advocacy Law Clinic and the Child Welfare Appellate Clinic, where students represent clients in trial and appellate proceedings. Additionally, he co-directs the AI Law Policy Clinic, addressing the intersection of technology and law. Recognized nationally for his teaching and advocacy, Sankaran has received accolades including the John W. Reed Michigan Lawyer Legacy Award. He is a prolific writer, contributing to the discourse on family rights and legal reform, and has been instrumental in shaping Michigan law. Sankaran founded the Detroit Center for Family Advocacy, promoting a legal model that employs multidisciplinary teams to prevent unnecessary foster care placements. His career began with a Skadden Fellowship at the Children’s Law Center in Washington, D.C. He is active in national organizations such as the American Bar Association and Casey Family Programs, advocating for family preservation and justice. Sankaran's commitment to legal education extends to facilitating training and conferences that advance legal representation in child welfare.

Research Interests

Experience

Clinical Professor of Law

2015-01-01 — Present

University of Michigan Law School • Ann Arbor, MI

Directs the Child Advocacy Law Clinic and Child Welfare Appellate Clinic, teaching students advocacy in child welfare cases.

Requirements for University of Michigan Law School

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:23
Writing
Required:22
Speaking
Required:23
Total
Required:98
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
First degree in law (LLB or equivalent) from a school outside the U.S.
Application Checklist
  • LSAC LLM CAS Report
  • Official Transcripts
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume/CV
  • Application Fee ($75)
Specialization Notes

Administered by University of Michigan Law School; exact department name 'Department of Law' refers to the LLM program.