What students in this clinic do?
Evaluate felony cases for possible postconviction motions in district court; research and draft postconviction motions; appear in court on motions where a hearing is granted.
FAQ
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What happens in the classroom component?
Students meet on-site at the State Appellate Public Defender Office and cover topics related to the substantive law and ethics of postconviction and sentencing practice.
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What do students learn in this clinic?
Exposure to the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines; interviewing and advocating for clients; evaluation, research, and drafting skills.
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When is this clinic offered?
Fall, spring, and summer.
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How many credits?
Three credits -
Are students permitted or encouraged to take this clinic for additional semesters?
Yes, students are encouraged to continue for additional semesters to undertake more complex work, including crimes appeals and parole revocations. Some students continue for multiple semesters and build lasting relationships with state public defenders in the appellate and trial offices.
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Are there any required or recommended pre-requisites?
None
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Can students with full-time jobs take this clinic?
Students must be available to attend weekly classes and meet with supervising attorneys during the work week. Many students also find it valuable to work on-site some hours during the week and interact with staff attorneys; however, those hours are flexible.
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Can students who live outside the Twin Cities take this clinic?
Students have been able to do this clinic by devoting one full day per week to being in the SPD Appellate Office.
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Who should take this clinic?
Students who are interested in working in the criminal justice system; students interested in getting experience researching and drafting motions.
Faculty and Staff
