The Criminal Appeals and Postconviction Clinic through the Office of the Minnesota Appellate Public Defender represents indigent criminal defendants on appellate and postconviction review of their convictions and sentences. Students will represent those clients under the supervision of experienced attorneys. Representation includes communication with incarcerated clients, researching legal issues, and composing briefs to the district and appellate courts to obtain relief for our clients. Relief is obtained through the appeals process, the postconviction remedy, or sentencing motions. This course will focus on the development of students’ research skills, in addition to fostering growth in written and oral advocacy. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of Minnesota criminal law and an appreciation for client-centered advocacy. Students may not register for more than one clinic during the same semester without the consent of both instructors. The classroom component of this course meets on campus. After the first class meeting, the classroom component will meet at the Appellate Public Defender's Office (540 Fairview Avenue S., St. Paul). For more information about this clinic, students should consult the information on the clinic webpage. Course meets in-person. Pre/CoReq: LAW- 2015
LAW-2015. May be taken concurrently.