Took it too far in Vegas and ended up back on campus with a wedding ring? Believe it or not, OU Student Legal Services has your back — offering free legal resources to all enrolled students.
In its first year, SLS served 85 student-clients. Since then, that number has more than quadrupled to 380 in 2023. In that time, Tracey Langford, attorney and director of Student Legal Services, has advised a range of cases from divorces to name changes.
“If a student has a legal issue, it’s often the first time that they’ve had a legal issue because they’re new to being adults,” said Langford. “I’m happy to listen and help them assess what they’re going through.”
SLS offers confidential legal services to students to ensure their ability to focus on achieving academic success. Langford works to make students feel comfortable when navigating legal issues, noting that the stress of the situation and not knowing the outcome is often worse than the actual conclusion.
To access services, students must first complete the Intake and Consent form, said Langford. This form establishes confidentiality and allows SLS to screen for conflicts of interest. Once submitted, students can schedule consultations in various formats — whether in-person, via Zoom, by phone or through email — ensuring they receive the support that best suits their needs.
As students encounter many experiences for the first time, such as the need to understand housing and landlord-tenant law, it is important to have proper guidance. According to Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs and Associate Dean of Students ShaRhonda Maclin, SLS does just that, supporting students as they transition from the structured environment of on-campus living to the more independent world of off-campus housing.
“SLS is there to assist with legal guidance on tenant issues, ensuring students are informed and protected as they take this important step in their college journey,” said Maclin.
SLS offers many other services such as legal advice and education, consultations, voter registration assistance, notary services and referrals, as well as limited-scope services in the following areas: landlord-tenant law, divorce, powers of attorney, health care planning, name changes, contract review and expungements, which is a legal process that seals a person's criminal record from public access.
Inspired by a Big 12 student government conference, two Student Government Association leaders brought the idea of SLS to OU in 2015. The SGA-led initiative eventually resulted in the formation of an official department within the Division of Student Affairs in 2021.
OU students who have been helped by SLS express deep appreciation for the support provided, noting the thorough guidance they received throughout the process. Many emphasized the convenience and expertise of the services offered, highlighting SLS as an invaluable resource that not only addresses legal challenges but also empowers students to succeed.
To learn more, visit the SLS website.
