Course Description: Criminal Defense Clinic
- Taught by Chris Roberts and Blase Kearney
- 6 credits (pass/fail) — offered Fall, Spring
- FAQs for prospective students
- The Clinic is open to students who have completed their first two semesters.
Criminal Defense Clinic students, under the supervision of faculty, represent individuals charged with misdemeanors in Travis County. Students function as lead counsel, working directly with clients to identify goals for the representation and to develop strategies in an effort to achieve the best possible outcome.
Students maintain a primary role at all court appearances, whether those appearances involve negotiations, discussions with a judge, evidentiary hearings, or trial. Depending on the stage of assigned cases, other responsibilities often include investigation, discovery practice, and drafting of motions.
The Clinic’s supervising attorneys assist with each representation by holding weekly supervision meetings and reviewing student preparation to ensure high-quality advocacy.