Criminal Justice Practicum

This practicum combines theory, substantive legal analysis, practical skills training, and real-client experience in criminal defense. Students will review substantive law related to California criminal law and criminal procedure with specific attention to the RJA and the recently enacted AB 600, which provide avenues for post-conviction applications for re-sentencing. The classroom portion of the course will include readings and discussions of the history and development of the carceral state. The fieldwork will include student representation of clients in the investigation, preparation, and filing of applications for resentencing under Cal. Penal Code section 1172.1. The first part of the course will include more substantive material, and the second part of the course will focus on skill development. Ideally, student fieldwork will culminate in the filing of an application for resentencing under AB 600. The calendaring and timing of events in the case will be determined by the court.   

In the experiential component of the course, students will work with the resentencing unit of the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office.