Western State College of Law Expands Experiential Learning with Two New Law Clinics

IRVINE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Western State College of Law is proud to introduce two new law clinics—Criminal Defense and Probate—joining the existing Entrepreneurship and Immigration and Deportation Defense Clinics. These four dynamic clinics offer students valuable hands-on experience and direct client interaction, providing practical training while serving the community.

All four clinics blend rigorous academic instruction with real-world legal work. Students attend weekly seminars led by experienced faculty, develop core lawyering skills through supervised client representation, and reflect on their practice via peer discussion and feedback. This structure ensures graduates leave with both practical skills and professional confidence.

Criminal Defense Clinic

Partnering with the Orange County Public Defender’s Office, students gain courtroom experience representing clients on active criminal cases. They develop advocacy skills in motion writing, case development, and in-court representation under close faculty supervision.

Entrepreneurship Clinic

Students advise entrepreneurs, start-ups, and non-profits on business formation, governance, contract drafting, and negotiations. The clinic emphasizes legal counseling and practical document preparation, preparing students for roles as trusted advisors in the business world.

Immigration and Deportation Defense Clinic

Students represent clients in a wide range of immigration matters, including defending against deportation, supporting vulnerable youth, and assisting those seeking relief in criminal-immigration crossover cases. The clinic also involves advocacy projects with community organizations, building both legal and cultural competency.

Probate Clinic

Students assist individuals navigating conservatorship, guardianship, estate, and trust matters in probate court. They guide clients through both administrative and court processes, preparing legal documents and making court appearances, with a focus on serving those appearing without formal legal representation.

“Western State’s clinics are a cornerstone of our mission to provide a practice-ready education that serves both our students and the broader community,” said Marisa Cianciarulo, Dean of Western State College of Law.

Students interested in these clinics can learn more at www.wsulaw.edu/academics/law-clinic/.

About Western State College of Law:

Western State College of Law at Westcliff University is an established institution with nearly 60 years of producing successful attorneys and over 150 alumni elevated to the bench. Its J.D. program offers specialized tracks, allowing students to develop unique skill sets tailored to their careers. Learn more at www.wsulaw.edu or follow on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.