Clinical Programs

Clinical legal education is law-school training in which students participate in actual cases under the supervision of a practicing attorney or law professor. Although the general definition is correct, it does not fully illuminate the unique and effective learning opportunities or the opportunity for practical experience while still in law school.

Through the RWU clinical programs, students are given the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of programs, to gain an abundant array of practical and professional legal skills, to work in a professional environment that provides extensive supervision and support, and to contribute to a variety of causes and advocate for a variety of client populations.

Clinical Programs at RWU Law

• In-House, Direct Services - All in-house, direct services are supervised by permanent, full-time, tenure-track faculty. The professionally staffed full service law office is located in Historic Downtown Providence, RI and houses the Criminal Defense Clinic and Immigration Clinic. The Mediation Clinic is located at the Law School in Bristol and consists of private office and meeting space to conduct mediations.
  • Immigration Clinic
  • Criminal Defense Clinic
  • Mediation Clinic
• Externships and Internships - All externships and internships are administered by permanent directors who provide personalized supervision, classroom teaching, and training.
  • Judicial Externships
  • Public Service Internships
  • Medical Legal Collaborative

RWU clinical programs are diverse and are always strengthening and growing. RWU Law students are given the opportunity to represent real clients, work for judges, connect with community organizations and leaders, and to collaborate with local attorneys.

Through such work and service, students develop practical and professional skills and directly and substantially contribute to the Rhode Island legal community and to disenfranchised populations in need of legal service.