Children's Defense Clinic


The Children's Defense Clinic (formerly the Delinquency Clinic) is a litigation-oriented clinic that focuses on the needs of "at-risk" children and adolescents. Clinic students advocate on behalf of children appearing before area juvenile courts. In the majority of cases, students serve as defense counsel for youth accused of delinquency (criminal) offenses. Students are also occasionally assigned to work as guardians ad litem on other cases which involve children's issues, such abuse and neglect.

Clinic students participate in client interviewing and counseling, fact investigation, case planning, report writing, motions drafting, and courtroom advocacy. The clinic is open to second and third year students, although students must have their third-year practice certificates in order to appear in court.

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One Student's Story

"I found my experience in the [Children's Defense Clinic) very rewarding. I was able to work on both guardian ad litem and delinquency cases and gain practical experience in a variety of areas. I was able to observe the court procedures of several local jurisdictions and learn how to maneuver within the juvenile justice system. I highly recommend either clinic. It is an experience I think everyone can benefit from, whatever area of the law you are interested in pursuing."

Kara Crane, Law Student