Oregon Law’s Civil Justice Clinic Expands Access to Justice for Survivors
Since its founding in 1999 as the Domestic Violence Clinic, the Civil Justice Clinic at the University of Oregon has operated with a dual mandate: training the next generation of attorneys while providing vital legal representation to vulnerable Oregonians.
Open to second- and third-year law students, the clinic bridges the gap between classroom theory and real-world practice. Under close faculty supervision, student attorneys manage active dockets, representing clients who face the often intimidating court system.
Students Represent Survivors in Protection Order Cases
Student attorneys in the clinic handle cases involving survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Participants regularly represent clients seeking Family Abuse Prevention Act restraining orders, Sexual Abuse Protection Orders, and Stalking Protection Orders.
The scope of work extends beyond immediate courtroom protection. Recognizing that a survivor’s long-term safety is frequently tied to economic security, student advocates also assist with employment, housing, and public benefits matters. This holistic approach requires students to collaborate closely with community partners and service providers, addressing both immediate legal concerns and broader challenges affecting client well-being.
Program Teaches Trauma-Informed Advocacy Skills
Participation in the clinic demands a diverse skill set. Students learn to conduct client interviews, build comprehensive case strategies, draft legal documents, and negotiate on behalf of clients. Crucially, the curriculum emphasizes trauma-informed, client-centered, and culturally responsive advocacy.
Beyond individual casework, students frequently engage in community outreach and legal education initiatives. These efforts aim to inform survivors, advocates, and service providers about legal rights and available protections.
The program operates in compliance with federal nondiscrimination laws, ensuring that no individual is excluded from participation or denied program benefits on the basis of race, color, national origin—including limited English proficiency—disability, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, or age.
