The Children's Justice Clinic is the cornerstone clinical program of the Nebraska Children's Justice and Legal Advocacy Center, preparing Nebraska Law students to serve as Guardians ad Litem for children involved in abuse and neglect proceedings. Under the supervision of Assistant Professor Michelle Paxton, students help advance meaningful advocacy on behalf of children and families.
The Children’s Justice Clinic gave me more than just courtroom experience—it offered the mentorship, structure, and sense of purpose that shaped how I show up as an advocate. Arguing on behalf of children, with that kind of foundation behind me, was truly transformative.
Tyrone F., CJC Student 2023-2024
84%
Include Child Welfare in Career Plans
Following their Children's Justice Clinic Experience
A Clinic Experience Like No Other
Through real-world advocacy, dedicated mentorship, and reflective practice, students gain experiences that shape them as advocates, professionals, and future attorneys.
Advocate Boldly
Serve as a Guardian ad Litem for children involved in abuse and neglect proceedings while gaining substantial courtroom experience through real cases and real-world legal practice.
Collaborate Across Systems
Draw on the expertise of professionals including attorneys, legal support professionals, and reflective practice specialists who support your growth as a skilled and thoughtful advocate.
Train Thoughtfully
Develop a deeper understanding of how trauma impacts children and families. These skills equip you to approach complex situations with empathy, insight, and care.
Reflect Deeply
Build resilience, self-awareness, and professional judgment through guided reflection that fosters personal growth and supports effective, sustainable advocacy.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
The Student Experience
"The CJC impacted me by helping me find my place within the law community ... and taught me how to advocate for my clients in the best way possible." – 2018-2019 Alum
“I feel as though I have done real work that helped improve the lives of my clients.” – 2024-2025 Alum
"I feel much more confident in my ability to practice law, present in court, build relationships with clients, and advocate for others as well as myself." – 2020-2021 Alum
“I have a bigger heart for the lives people have.” – 2023-2024 Alum
Interested in the Children's Justice Clinic?
The Children's Justice Clinic provides an immersive, two-semester experience for University of Nebraska College of Law students who are passionate about child advocacy and ready to take on real-world legal work.
Children's Justice Clinic
Who can participate?
- Eligible third-year Nebraska Law Students
Preparing for the clinic:
- Legal Profession course required
- Juvenile Law course strongly recommended
- Apply through the clinical application in the spring
Children's Justice Clerkship
Who can participate?
- Second-year Nebraska Law students
What you'll do:
- Gain paid experience in child advocacy initiatives
- Conduct legal research and draft resources
- Choose either a rural attorney or judicial clerkship path