Helen Alvare
George Mason University School of Law
Helen M. Alvare, who received her J.D. from Cornell University in 1984 and a master's degree in theology from The Catholic University of America in 1989, is a professor at George Mason University School of Law. Prior joining the faculty at George Mason, Professor Alvare was an associate professor at Catholic University of America-Columbus School of Law. Since 1987 she has worked at the National Conference of Catholic Bishops, first in the Office of General Counsel and later as the director of information and planning for the bishops' pro-life office. Alvare also spoke for the American Catholic bishops in television, radio, print media and public lectures. Alvare has testified on behalf of the bishops before federal congressional committees and lobbied members of Congress on federal legislation concerning abortion, health care and welfare reform. Alvare previously worked as a staff attorney for the National Conference of Catholic Bishops and as an associate at Stradley, Ronon, Stevens and Young in Philadelphia.
Helen Alvare On Law Preview . . .
Why do you teach for Law Preview?
Because I love teaching Property.
Why is Law Preview better than other modes of preparing for law school?
Gives you a "real feel" for classroom life/pressures, and the complexity of the material.
Helen Alvare On Law School . . .
What is the most important skill law students lack when they begin law school that Law Preview teaches?
Getting out of classes what a law professor is looking for.
What are your favorite study aids for the subject-matter you teach at Law Preview?
Understanding Property by John Sprankling.
What is your favorite fiction/non-fiction book for the subject-matter you teach at Law Preview?
I don't have one.
What is your favorite casebook for the subject-matter you teach at Law Preview?
Property, 6th by James Krier and Jesse Dukeminier.
What's your favorite thing about teaching the law?
It is never boring and there are always new questions to challenge your mind and keep you mentally young.
Helen Alvare On Life . . .
What is your greatest accomplishment, professional or personal?
Good marriage and kids while loving my work at the same time.
If you weren't teaching at your school, what would your "other dream job" be?
Author of books on law and culture.
What are your 3 favorite movies?
La Dolce Vita, Dark Eyes, Monty Python and the Holy Grail.
What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
Take it one step at a time.
