The Children’s Justice Attorney Education Fellowship was created to address a pressing reality: Nebraska simply does not have enough qualified attorneys to serve in juvenile court—especially in rural areas. The demands of juvenile court practice require more than a law degree; they require specialized training, multidisciplinary support, and emotional resilience. The CJAE Fellowship was designed to provide all three.
This 8-month fellowship prepares practicing attorneys to take on the complex and meaningful work of representing children, parents, and the state in juvenile court. Whether serving as a Guardian ad Litem, parent’s counsel, youth counsel, or prosecutor, Fellows leave the program with a deeper understanding of the law, stronger professional judgment, and a supportive network that extends well beyond their Fellowship year.
What Makes CJAE Different?
Not a typical CLE. Not a one-size-fits-all training. The CJAE Fellowship offers a fully immersive experience designed for attorneys committed to improving juvenile court advocacy in their communities.
- Interactive Training Workshops: Fellows participate in four in-person workshops from April to November, each focused on key aspects of child welfare and juvenile justice. Training is active, discussion-driven, and grounded in real practice.
- Individualized Case Consultation: Each Fellow is paired with a multidisciplinary team that includes a seasoned juvenile court attorney and a licensed mental health practitioner. Fellows also have access to additional consultants with expertise in areas such as child development, trauma, and child welfare practice to help navigate complex case dynamics.
- Reflective Practice: Fellows engage in monthly reflective practice sessions facilitated by a trained practitioner. These small-group discussions create space to process challenging work, improve self-awareness, and build long-term sustainability in emotionally intensive legal practice.
- Ongoing Support and Community: The CJAE Fellowship creates lasting professional relationships. Alumni continue to benefit from advanced trainings, peer support, and consultation opportunities—strengthening juvenile court advocacy across Nebraska.
2025 Program Details
Timing
- January: CJAE Fellow application opens.
- March: CJAE Fellows announced.
- April-November: The Children's Justice Attorney Education Fellowship Program launches its first session in April and finishes in November.
Qualifications
- The Children's Justice Attorney Education Fellowship Program is open to those with licensure (or in current pursuit of licensure) to practice law in Nebraska.
- Legal practice in rural Nebraska (excluding Douglas, Lancaster and Sarpy Counties).
- Commitment to participate in both in-person workshops and ongoing virtual case consultations and reflective practice.
Events
The majority of fellows' expert case consultations and reflective practice sessions will occur virtually and coordinate with your schedule. Fellows will attend four in-person workshops.
- Courtroom Advocacy Preparation Using a Trauma-Informed Lens · April 23-25 · Kearney
- Child Welfare Law: Informed and Compassionate Advocacy · June 18-20 · Grand Island
- Understanding the Needs and Advocating for Older Youth · September 8-9 · Kearney
- Understanding and Navigating Permanency in Child Welfare · November 10-11 · Kearney
Cost
The Children's Justice Attorney Education Fellowship Program is free to participants; in fact, we will pay you to complete the program. Attorney participants will receive $5000 for participation in the program in addition to mileage and lodging.