The Civil Justice Clinic gives Oregon Law students the opportunity to represent real clients while advocating for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Through direct client representation, students develop practical lawyering skills, gain courtroom and advocacy experience, and provide critical legal services to low-income Oregonians who might otherwise be unable to obtain legal representation.Open to second- and third-year law students, the clinic combines hands-on practice with close faculty supervision.
Students learn how to interview and counsel clients, develop case strategies, draft legal documents, negotiate on behalf of clients, and navigate complex legal and ethical issues. The clinic emphasizes client-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive advocacy, preparing students to work effectively with vulnerable populations throughout their legal careers.Students may represent clients seeking Family Abuse Prevention Act restraining orders, Sexual Abuse Protection Orders, and Stalking Protection Orders. Depending on client needs, students may also assist with employment, housing, and public benefits matters that affect survivors' safety and economic stability.
The clinic takes a holistic approach to legal advocacy, recognizing that long-term safety often depends on economic security. Students work closely with community partners and service providers to help clients address both immediate legal concerns and broader challenges affecting their well-being. In addition to client representation, students may participate in community outreach and legal education efforts designed to inform survivors, advocates, and service providers about legal rights and available protections.
Founded in 1999 as the Domestic Violence Clinic, the Civil Justice Clinic has provided Oregon Law students with meaningful experiential learning opportunities while expanding access to justice for survivors throughout Oregon.
The University of Oregon, Domestic Violence Clinic operates its program, services and activities in compliance with federal nondiscrimination laws. No person shall, on the basis of race, color, national origin (including limited English proficiency), disability, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, or age, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any of our programs.