Overview

Changing Locations, Not Principles: Loyola Maintains Focus on Advocacy Loyola Law School, Los Angeles has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1920 as St. Vincent's School of Law. From its early years, the Law School has emphasized the importance of ethics, philosophy, oratory, and advocacy in legal education. Today, Loyola Law School continues to uphold these principles and offers an exciting and rewarding experience for attorneys, law students, and school staff. Under the leadership of its first dean, William Joseph Ford, Loyola Law School experienced significant growth in the late 1920s. Ford, a renowned deputy district attorney, was instrumental in diversifying the student body and improving the alumni success rate for the California Bar Exam. His legacy paved the way for the Law School's continued success. Another influential figure in Loyola Law School's history was Father Joseph Donovan, S.J., who served as the Law School's dean in 1927. Like his predecessors, Father Donovan maintained an active law practice while overseeing the daily affairs of the school. His dedication and leadership led to the Law School's relocation to a new city center facility at Third Street and Broadway in 1929. Throughout its history, Loyola Law School has been home to notable legal professionals. Joseph Scott, a well-known defense attorney and political actor, served as one of the Law School's initial deans. Scott's courtroom victories, including the defense of the McNamara brothers and a defamation suit against the Los Angeles Times, solidified his reputation as a skilled advocate. Today, a bronze statue of Scott stands outside the Grand Avenue entry to the Los Angeles County Courthouse, commemorating his contributions to the legal profession. In 1930, Loyola Law School underwent significant changes, including the addition of a day division, a new name, and a new location. The introduction of a day division allowed for more flexible class schedules, with morning and evening sessions. The Law School's relocation to Third Street and Broadway, just blocks away from the Los Angeles County Law Library, further enhanced its accessibility and resources. The name change to Loyola Law School reflected its affiliation with Loyola College at the time. The Law School achieved a major milestone in 1935 when it received official recognition from the American Bar Association (ABA) under the leadership of Dean J. Howard Ziemann. This recognition solidified Loyola Law School's reputation as a respected institution within the legal community. In the same year, Loyola was also admitted into the Association of American Law Schools, further cementing its place among the nation's top law schools. During World War II, Sayre McNeil, the longest-serving dean of Loyola Law School, navigated the challenges faced by the school. Working alongside Father Donovan, McNeil ensured the Law School's stability during the war and successfully managed the influx of applications from veterans utilizing the GI Bill to fund their education in the post-war era. Loyola Law School continued to thrive in the following decades, with alumni Manuel Real '51 and Roger Sullivan '52 establishing the St. Thomas More Law Honor Society in 1951. In 1952, the Law School introduced the Scott Moot Court in honor of Dean Scott, providing students with valuable opportunities to hone their advocacy skills. The Law School's Moot Court team even reached the semifinals of the National Moot Court competition just two years later. Today, Loyola Law School remains committed to its founding principles of ethics, philosophy, oratory, and advocacy. Its rich history, distinguished alumni, and prestigious affiliations make it an exciting and rewarding institution for attorneys, law students, and school staff. Whether you are seeking a comprehensive legal education, networking opportunities, or a supportive community, Loyola Law School offers a dynamic environment that will help you thrive in your legal career.