Improving Criminal Justice

The inequities of our criminal justice system are becoming increasingly apparent. Yet, the work involved in making improvements to such a vast and intricate structure remains as daunting as ever. While faculty worked to share knowledge to a wider community through webinars, our clinics are engaged in several efforts to improve the criminal justice system for all.

The inequities of our criminal justice system are becoming increasingly apparent. Yet, the work involved in making improvements to such a vast and intricate structure remains as daunting as ever.

Lewis & Clark Law School is known both for its advocacy on behalf of crime victims and, more recently, its work on behalf of those who are incarcerated. We provide excellent training in all aspects of criminal law.

Our curriculum goes beyond the usual teaching of prosecution and defense. Lewis & Clark students gain insight into the ways that criminal law intersects with poverty, immigration enforcement, and other matters. Classes address specialized topics such as cybercrime, environmental crimes, terrorism and national security, and crimes against animals.

Aided by donor-funded clinics, scholarships, and faculty research, students join with alums who are working at the forefront of criminal justice issues, making change through litigation, research and data collection, amicus briefs, representation, and more.

Fall-2021, Improving Criminal Justice

Crime Victim Litigation Clinic

Students with the Crime Victim Litigation Clinic (CVLC), which is a key project of the National Crime Victim Litigation Institute (NCVLI), work on litigation and policy issues impacting victims of crime all across the country.
Fall-2021, Improving Criminal Justice

Criminal Justice Reform Clinic

Students in the Criminal Justice Reform Clinic (CJRC) worked on a variety of cases and projects relating to the back end of the criminal justice system in the areas of parole, clemency, forensic science in wrongful convictions, and legal services to incarcerated youth.