The Juvenile Rights Law Clinic (JRLC), in partnership with the Legal Aid Society Juvenile Rights Practice, is a two-semester clinic open to 2Ls and 3Ls. Students under the supervision of experienced faculty, fully engage all facets of client-centered juvenile practice. Students, together with a multidisciplinary team, represent children in child welfare matters filed in Manhattan Family Court. Students are assigned to represent children in trial court proceedings wherein parents, guardians and or persons legally responsible for the child are charged with abuse and neglect. For example, these cases typically allege drug and or alcohol abuse, education neglect, medical neglect, physical abuse, mental illness, domestic violence and or inadequate guardianship. In addition, students may represent or assist with representation of clients in related matters, such as custody, SIJS, crossover juvenile justice matters, and school suspension hearings. Students may also work on related policy and legislative reform and impact litigation. To that end, students work with the Special Litigation Law Reform team on systemic issues.

JRLC participants work collaboratively within the interdisciplinary model. Students must commit to 16 hours each week, which includes course work, seminar, client representation, related field trips, client visits, investigations, and court observations.

Approved for the Experiential Learning Requirement. Enrollment is limited. Registration is binding. Application and interview are required, and the application can be found in Student Resources on the NYLS Portal.

Recommended for the Following Professional Pathways: Civil Rights/Civil Liberties; Criminal Defense; Criminal Prosecution; Family Law; Government/Public Sector; General Practice – Litigation/Dispute Resolution

Prerequisite or Co-requisite: Family Law

If taken as a co-requisite, the course should be taken concurrently with the clinic in the fall semester. Requirement may be waived by clinic faculty.

Suggested Course: Trial Advocacy

8 Credits: Full Year Course
Fall: 4 credits
Spring:4 credits