Four law students and an alumni association at Golden Gate University have filed a lawsuit against the California-based non-profit institution, seeking redress for the closure of its 123-years old law degree program. The legal action, directed primarily at University President David J. Fike, took place at the San Francisco Superior Court and responds to what the plaintiffs describe as a “tragic and unnecessary pending closure.”
According to the plaintiffs, the impending closure of the Golden Gate University School of Law is due to “poor leadership” and a “lack of transparency.” The plaintiffs are seeking to halt the law degree program’s closure, set to happen at the end of the spring term.
The university had previously announced in November 2023 that it would be discontinuing its American Bar Association-accredited Juris Doctor program, providing an alternative option for current students to complete their studies. This decision was met with significant backlash from both the student and alumni bodies alike.
Key factors allegedly contributing to the closure, such as financial issues and poor bar pass rates, have been identified. However, university stakeholders argue that these factors are a result of poor management decision-making, rather than inherent flaws in the program or institution itself.
The lawsuit represents a significant challenge for the university and has wider implications for academic institutions across the US, particularly those struggling with similar issues. As this lawsuit progresses, it will offer insight into legal obligations and responsibilities of universities, especially when significant programmatic changes are made.
The full article can be found at Bloomberg Law.