Post-Conviction and Reentry Justice Clinic

The Post-Conviction & Reentry Justice Clinic offers an intensive lawyering experience at the intersection of civil and criminal law, where students are immersed in a clinical practice that places legal theory alongside the lived realities of overcriminalization. Students observe firsthand how theories of punishment, such as rehabilitation, deterrence, retribution, and restorative justice, take shape in legal matters involving incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals. Case work may include motions to vacate a sentence or judgment, parole petitions and appeals, petitions for modification of supervision or registration requirements, and general reentry legal services. Through direct representation, students assume primary responsibility in their legal work: developing legal strategy, building client relationships, providing thoughtful legal counsel, reinvestigating cases, and preparing written and oral advocacy. Beyond individual casework, students gain experience in policy analysis and public education in collaboration with system impacted people. They participate in community workshops, contribute to legislative advocacy efforts aimed at reducing excessive sentencing and reentry barriers, and engage in legal education in jails and prisons. By the end of the clinic, students will have strengthened core lawyering competencies in counseling, statutory analysis, oral and written advocacy, ethical judgment, and strategic thinking. Students will also have developed a professional identity rooted in client centeredness and diligent, reflective advocacy.