Juvenile Justice Clinic Supervising Attorney

About the Role

The supervising attorney will oversee and direct certified law students representing youth in Los Angeles County juvenile delinquency courts as part of the Juvenile Justice Clinic (JJC) within Loyola Law School’s Center for Juvenile Law and Policy (CJLP). The JJC provides free legal services to children and young people in delinquency courts while offering law students hands-on public interest experience. The clinic employs a holistic, participatory defense model aimed at reducing recidivism and fostering stability for clients and their support systems.

This position is full-time and year-round, located on the Loyola Law School campus. The role requires driving to courts, client homes, schools, and other locations, with some evening and occasional weekend hours.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Clinic Director to ensure effective management of the JJC and support fundraising and communications efforts.
• Supervise clinic students’ work, including certified law students in court appearances.
• Thoroughly prepare certified law students for client/family meetings, interactions with juvenile justice partners, and court appearances.
• Represent youth in Los Angeles County delinquency courts, including client communication, litigation, court hearings, and post-disposition advocacy.
• Assume full or partial responsibility for clinic client representation during periods of student absence.
• Co-teach the required courses of the Juvenile Justice Clinic alongside the Clinic Director.
• Build and foster the clinic’s relationships with the community and other stakeholders.
• Perform other duties as assigned or requested.

Requirements

• JD Degree and active California law license with at least two years of practice experience (required to supervise certified law students).
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in indigent defense and juvenile justice, including bench and jury trial experience (law school clinical experience may be considered).
• Ability to mentor, supervise, and train law students in an in-house clinical program; prior teaching or student supervision experience preferred.
• Outstanding trial and lawyering skills, with exemplary written and oral communication abilities, particularly in collaborative, holistic team settings.
• Demonstrated commitment to social justice, tenacity, and a track record of working effectively with diverse and vulnerable client populations.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, professionalism, and the ability to work independently while seeking guidance when needed.
• Spanish-speaking ability is preferred.

Mission Statement

The Juvenile Justice Clinic at Loyola Law School provides holistic, client-centered advocacy for youth involved in the juvenile justice system. The clinic challenges institutionalized racism and seeks to dismantle oppressive systems, standing in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement. Guided by three core principles—holistic representation, community-conscious advocacy, and zealous client defense—the clinic trains future defenders to honor young people and fight for justice. The JJC is committed to breaking down barriers to justice and liberating youth from the criminal legal system.