Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School (AJMLS) has announced a new partnership with Gideon’s Promise and The Barristers Society to establish the Criminal and Civil Justice Institute (CCJI). This collaboration aims to connect legal education with advocacy, helping law students and new attorneys gain the necessary skills and mentorship to impact their communities positively.
The CCJI is designed to serve as a hub in Atlanta, focusing on advancing justice for underserved populations. It will offer AJMLS students access to externships and mentorship programs, facilitated by legal professionals known as Law Partners. Student involvement in these programs aims to narrow the gap between theoretical and practical legal training. Additionally, Gideon’s Promise and The Barristers Society plan to relocate their operations onsite to the Law School.
Dean Jace C. Gatewood highlighted the significance of the initiative, saying, “This program is truly one of a kind, setting a new standard in legal education.” The partnership will not only address the need for high-quality legal representation but also reshape how future lawyers are prepared for their careers.
Sam Starks, President of The Barristers Society, will act as Executive Director of the CCJI, with responsibilities including the selection of Law Partners to manage the institute. “Equal justice is an aspiration that has never been fulfilled. Through the CCJI, we have a unique opportunity to bring together lawyers who fight for the promise of equal justice every day with law students who want to join this effort,” remarked Starks.
The institute plans to host seminars and workshops for both students and practicing lawyers, offering ongoing education, particularly for those in solo or small-firm practices. Additionally, AJMLS students and alumni will receive ongoing mentorship and career guidance.
Jonathan Rapping, founder of Gideon’s Promise, will take on the role of Faculty Director, collaborating with Starks on the operations of the CCJI. Rapping commented, “AJMLS has long enjoyed a reputation for preparing practice-ready lawyers to represent people who lack access to justice. Through the CCJI we can continue to develop future lawyers with exceptional legal skills, driven by justice-centered lawyering values.”
Overall, the establishment of the CCJI at AJMLS represents a step forward in legal education and advocacy, striving to enhance the quality of legal representation and foster a new generation of skilled legal professionals.
About Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School (AJMLS)
Founded in 1933, AJMLS is committed to offering high-quality legal education to diverse student bodies, including traditional and non-traditional students. It provides various programs aimed at preparing students for the legal profession with a focus on ethical practice and community engagement.
About Gideon’s Promise (GP)
Gideon’s Promise focuses on transforming public defense by building a community of dedicated public defenders capable of driving change and providing zealous representation in the criminal justice system.
About The Barristers Society (TBS)
The Barristers Society aims to train legal advocates who address justice barriers within their communities, fostering attorneys who champion justice and equality.