About

Cathy Zwolak Kilian is an Associate Professor of Law at Delaware Law School. She is admitted to practice law in Delaware and Pennsylvania (inactive).  In 2013, Professor Zwolak Kilian joined Delaware Law School teaching and mentoring students in the areas of domestic violence and experiential learning.

As the Interim Director for the Delaware Civil Law Clinic, Professor Zwolak Kilian supervises law students admitted to the limited practice of law. The DCC is a live client clinic created in 1984, in an effort to provide practical legal experience to law students through civic engagement in the Delaware community. The primary focus of the DCC is the representation of survivors of domestic violence in Delaware Family Court.    

As the Director of the DLS Public Interest Resource Center, Professor Zwolak Kilian enjoys working with DLS students in identifying legal pro bono opportunities.  Each year many DLS students earn Pro Bono Distinction at Graduation, recognizing their 50+ hours of legal pro bono work.

Professor Zwolak Kilian also teaches Professional Responsibility and experiential learning courses such as Interviewing and Counseling and Legal Methods II (appellate advocacy). 

In addition, she is a co-faculty advisor of the Domestic Violence Research and Advocacy Fellow and Domestic Violence Community Awareness Project Student Coordinator.

Following graduation from law school, Professor Zwolak Kilian practiced corporate bankruptcy in Wilmington, Delaware representing Chapter 11 bankruptcy trustees and creditors in preference actions.  She also engaged in pro bono legal representation with the Delaware Volunteer Legal Services, Inc. Protection from Abuse Program.

Professor Zwolak Kilian has been active in a number of professional and civic organizations, including: DLS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, Domestic Violence Coordinating Council Legislative Committee, Melson Arsht Inn of Court, Delaware Volunteer Legal Services, Inc. PFA Program, Delaware High School Mock Trial (coach), Family Law Section of the Delaware State Bar Association, Taishoff Advocacy Technology & Public Institute Fellow, Delaware Family Court Appointed Pro Bono Attorney and Attorney GAL, and Serviam Girls Academy Board of Directors.

What do I enjoy most about working at Delaware Law School?

I thrive on opportunities to mentor students in experiential learning and well-being.  I absolutely enjoy and look forward to working with law students as they navigate the legal profession, including identifying opportunities during law school and post-graduation.  I aim to bring positive energy to DLS whether working with students and my colleagues in the classroom, courtroom, or taking a walk around campus!  I also very much admire Delaware Law School’s deep commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.