San Diego's OldestLawSchool
Shape the Conversation
Join Professor Harpalani as he examines how admissions litigation reflects persistent racial stereotypes, including the model minority myth and the soft bigotry of high expectations.
Acclaimed legal advocate, educator, and author Calvin Duncan visited California Western School of Law to share his remarkable journey from wrongful conviction to nationally recognized advocate for justice.
California Western School of Law welcomed investigative journalist James Stout to campus for a discussion on border journalism, source protection, and reporting in high-risk environments.
LaunchYour Career
Our Programs
Earning a law degree from California Western means mastering legal theory and fundamentals, honing critical-thinking skills, and gaining the ability to apply the law in dynamic settings. For more than 100 years, California Western has succeeded in helping law students gain the skills and experience that employers and clients seek.
CWSL entering 1L’s took the Oath of Professionalism at the James M. Carter and Judith N. Keep U.S. Courthouse.
Connect Legal Theory and Practice
Learn more about our faculty, including their scholarly activity and media appearances.
California Western Weekly
Faculty at California Western School of Law (CWSL) continue to produce groundbreaking work and present it across the country and around the globe.
Issue 41 - October 2, 2026
Professor William Aceves Receives Roberto Alvarez Award from American Constitution Society
California Western School of Law proudly celebrates Chief Justice Roger Traynor Professor of Law William Aceves on being named the recipient of the American Constitution Society San Diego Lawyer Chapter's 2026 Roberto Alvarez Award.
Drive Change
At CWSL, we have cultivated more than just legal minds; we have fostered a vibrant community where solidarity and support reign. As President of CWSL’s Black Law Student Association, I have witnessed firsthand the power of unity in overcoming challenges and championing diversity. Together, we have excelled academically and forged lasting bonds that transcend the confines of our campus.
Lauren Strackbine ’13 Promoted to Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer of the San Jose Sharks
Congratulations to Lauren Strackbine ’13 on her promotion to Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer for the San Jose Sharks. Her promotion reflects her leadership, professional accomplishments, and continued success in the sports industry.
California Western Chapter of Asian Pacific American Law Students Association Recognized as the 2026 APALSA of the Year
California Western School of Law’s Asian Pacific American Law Students Association
(APALSA) earned the honor for its outstanding commitment to community engagement,
leadership, and advocacy on behalf of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.
Live and Learn in a Dynamic City
I would choose CWSL a thousand times over. Everyone I have met, including faculty, staff, and students, has been very welcoming ... Everyone wants each other to succeed, and that is clear in the interactions they share.