About
The United States incarcerates more people than any other country on the planet; it also releases more people from prison than any other country. As illustrated by Michelle Alexander’s groundbreaking book, The New Jim Crow, individuals with criminal records suffer massive collateral consequences including, but sadly not limited to, job loss, homelessness, and family separation. The Reentry Clinic helps those individuals burdened with a criminal record fully reenter society by providing holistic representation to ensure recently released persons have the best opportunity to live a safe and fulfilling life. This work is on the cutting edge of criminal justice and provides insight into the next wave of restorative justice reform.
What do students do in the clinic?
Students provide direct representation to individuals in a whole host of legal matters, including family law, expungement, and civil rights lawsuits. Students will interview clients, draft pleadings and appear in court on behalf of the client.
Professor Brad Colbert talks about the LAMP and Reentry clinics
Colbert appeared on The District Court Show with Judges Elizabeth Strand ’98 and Stephen Halsey ’78 on QCTV Community Television. Full show at qctv.org/districtcourtshow.
FAQ
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What happens in the classroom component?
Classroom time is divided between talking about individual cases, discussing related readings and other assignments. Classroom topics focus on legal issues that individuals with criminal records face upon reentry. There may be some guest lecturers who can address specific reentry issues. -
What do students learn in this clinic?
Students gain experience in a wide range of client representation and reentry laws. Students will become familiar with interviewing clients, evaluating potential case merits, drafting letters to clients, drafting pleadings, and appearing in court with clients. The clinic is a full representation clinic and includes all facets of representation. -
When is this clinic offered?
Every fall and spring -
How many credits?
Students may register for 3-4 credits. -
Are students permitted or encouraged to take this clinic for additional semesters?
Yes -
Are there any required or recommended pre-requisites?
Professional Responsibility -
Can students with full-time jobs take this clinic?
Yes. The classroom component is offered in the mid- afternoon, to accommodate students with full-time work schedules. The work for clients is flexible. -
Can students who live outside the Twin Cities take this clinic?
No. Not at this time. -
Who should take this clinic?
Students interested in litigation, gaining court skills, interested in a career in legal aid or nonprofit law firms, or just want a lot of practical experience with clients.
Faculty and staff
