Juvenile Law Practice Concentration
Juvenile justice issues present unique challenges to the judicial system and the attorneys who work within that system. Students participating in the juvenile law practice concentration work on behalf of teenagers at risk by accepting court appointments as guardians ad litem. The court sends the Law Clinic primarily truancy cases which have proven to be difficult to resolve. Over half of the children represented by the clinic are in foster care. Interns use the legal system to work with youth and families on issues such as
- drug and alcohol dependency
- emotional, physical and sexual abuse
- special education
- gang activity
- running away from placement
- pregnancy
- poverty and
- the angst of just being a teenager.
As guardians ad litem, clinic students develop counseling skills, work collaboratively with other professionals, hone their analytical skills and make frequent court appearances.
To serve the best interests of youth being represented, interns prepare for regular appearances in juvenile court by researching state and federal statutes, conducting careful fact investigations to monitor progress of a case, and writing motions and orders. Students learn to negotiate with other attorneys, social workers, school personnel, service providers, family members, and their clients. With frequent appearances in court, students gain confidence and experience throughtout the semester.
In addition to appearing before the Child in Need of Care Court, students often have an opportunity to represent children in other civil proceedings, such as emancipations. The clinic also appears before the probate court in adoptions and guardianships of children.
