Criminal Justice Clinic

The School of Law at Washington and Lee University has launched a new legal clinic focusing on misdemeanor criminal defense. Law students working in the Criminal Justice Clinic will represent in district and circuit court indigent clients facing criminal charges including assault, driving while intoxicated, shoplifting, and marijuana possession.

The Clinic will represent low-income clients from Lexington, Rockbridge County and surrounding areas and receive case assignments directly from the courts. Operating on a completely pro bono basis, the Clinic will take no money from clients and will not receive compensation from the court system. King estimates the Clinic will handle 40-60 cases each year.

The goal of the Clinic is to teach students the art of criminal defense and effective trial practice, while at the same time providing a level of representation second to none in the area. In addition to learning the substantive and procedural law of criminal practice, students will be responsible for the entire life of the case until the trial is over. They will conduct client interviews, make arguments on bail and conditions of release, find and interview witnesses, litigate evidence discovery, and argue sentencing motions among other tasks.

The Clinic is directed by Prof. J.D. King. For more information about the Clinic and to learn about eligibility requirements, contact Prof. King at 540.458.8518.