Criminal Prosecution Clinic

Prosecute misdemeanor offenses in Delaware County, located just north of Columbus. You’ll act as lead counsel in criminal cases, prosecuting charges from theft and disorderly conduct to weapons offenses and domestic violence. Students take on cases starting shortly after arraignment and see them through to their final outcome.  

You’ll hone key legal skills including interviewing complainants and witnesses, conducting investigations, developing case strategies, negotiating with defense attorneys, and appearing in court to represent the State on motions, in plea hearings, and at trials. 

The faculty member teaching the clinic is appointed each fall as a special prosecutor, allowing the clinic full discretion in its handling of cases. Clinic students work creatively and holistically to identify and address the problems underlying the criminal conduct and engage in best practices to ensure the ethical and appropriate use of prosecutorial discretion.