CAMDEN, N.J. — Rutgers Law School in Camden is set to enhance its Clinical Program with a $100,000 grant from the state of New Jersey, designed to support student engagement in real-world legal cases under the guidance of experienced faculty. This funding is instrumental in providing legal assistance to underserved populations who might otherwise be without representation.
The initiative was spearheaded by New Jersey Assemblyman William Spearman, who played a pivotal role in the legislative process to secure the financial support. Assembly Majority Leader Louis D. Greenwald formally presented the grant to Rutgers Law Camden’s Vice Dean Arthur Laby during a ceremony on September 9.
“Rutgers University–Camden has established itself as a national leader in civic engagement,” Greenwald stated. He highlighted the university’s partnerships across South Jersey as vital to enhancing community support. “The pro bono legal programs at Rutgers Law School exemplify how The State University of New Jersey meets the needs of its residents effectively.”
Dean Johanna Bond of Rutgers Law School emphasized the significance of the funding, framing it as both an investment in the quality of legal education and a commitment to justice. “Our clinics serve as a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical application, teaching future lawyers the importance of using the law as a tool for equity,” she said. The grant will further the school’s mission to improve access to legal education while promoting integrity, leadership, and justice among its students.
According to U.S. News & World Report, the Clinical Programs at Rutgers Law are ranked twelfth nationally, with students actively involved across 22 clinics, providing pro bono legal services through collaborations with various legal aid organizations. The funding will empower students like Lillian Antwi, who is involved in both the Expungement Law Project and the Housing Advocacy Clinic.
Reflecting on her experience, Antwi remarked, “The hands-on exposure I received at the housing clinic enhanced my legal research and writing skills, boosting my confidence in handling complex housing issues.” She noted the profound impact of her work on clients’ lives, reinforcing the practical importance of the law.
Chancellor Antonio Tillis of Rutgers University-Camden also recognized the importance of this funding, stating, “This essential support will ensure that Rutgers Law can continue providing vital legal services to individuals and families in our region who would otherwise lack access.”
The investment signifies New Jersey’s commitment to enhancing legal education and protecting the rights of its most vulnerable citizens.
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