Students in the Samuel Jacobs Criminal Justice Clinic (CJC) represent clients in state and federal criminal cases. All CJC students defend people accused of misdemeanor and/or felony offenses in the Geographical Area #23 courthouse (the GA) on Elm Street in New Haven. Students also handle a wide variety of other matters, including state parole cases, state and federal resentencing cases, federal supervised release cases, and federal appeals. Students are responsible for all aspects of their clients’ cases under the supervision of clinical faculty. Students learn how to build relationships with clients, investigate and develop their cases, construct persuasive case theories, negotiate with opposing counsel, prepare motions and briefs, and advocate for clients in court. Students also explore the legal framework governing the representation of clients in criminal cases, including the rules of professional responsibility. Throughout, students are encouraged to think critically about the operation of the criminal justice system and to reflect on opportunities for reform.
The CJC is supported in part by the Peter and Patricia Gruber Foundation.
Learn more about the Clinic's CJAC Parole Advocacy and Resentencing Team.
Learn more about the Clinic’s work on Parole Revocation.
