Mission and History

The Justice Center inspires, equips, and empowers Texas Law students to serve the public interest. Our work includes:

• Education: Teaching students about public interest lawyering and the need to increase access to justice
• Pro Bono: Creating opportunities for the Texas Law community to gain legal skills and serve the public through the Richard and Ginni Mithoff Pro Bono Program
• Programming: Informing students, faculty, staff, attorneys, and the community about public interest legal issues
• Community Building: Fostering a community of support for students and alumni engaged in public service
• Financial Support: Awarding scholarships and fellowships to ensure that public interest law practice is accessible to and sustainable for all

The William Wayne Justice Center for Public Interest Law was established in 2004 when Texas Law joined Judge William Wayne Justice’s former law clerks and many admirers to create the center in his honor. Today, the Justice Center serves as a comprehensive resource for students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community.

Since its founding, the Justice Center has expanded its programs to meet the evolving needs of students and communities. Dedicated to fostering a lifelong commitment to public service, it is home to the Richard and Ginni Mithoff Pro Bono Program, which promotes a culture of pro bono service across the law school. The Center also develops initiatives that combine education, advocacy, and service to address emerging community needs. Through scholarships, fellowships, educational programs, and partnerships with community organizations, it prepares future lawyers to advance the public interest and expand access to justice.