Madison Gallegos, a rising 3L from Aurora, CO, reflects on how her clinical experience in the Criminal Defense Clinic has prepared her for her summer job at the public defender's office in Adams County. Her insights highlight the transformative impact of the hands-on legal training provided by the Clinical Program. With her sights set on a career in public defense, Madison's journey illustrates the significant benefits of practical legal experience.
Did your clinical program prepare you for your summer job? How so?
"Oh my gosh yes! I felt so much more prepared than I would have if I didn’t do the defense clinic," Gallegos states. She describes how the clinic provided practical skills that were essential for her summer role, including writing motions, conducting bond arguments, and preparing for trial. "Law school is very academic, but the clinic taught me how to handle real cases, which made a huge difference when I was given 20 cases during my internship."
How did the practical experience in the clinic differ from your classroom learning?
"Classroom learning is theoretical, focusing on why laws are made and their underlying principles," she notes. "The clinic was about the practical application of these laws. We learned how cases actually move through the system and how to apply legal knowledge to real-life situations."
Did the clinics influence your career aspirations or areas of legal interest?
Gallegos entered law school with a desire to pursue public defense, and the clinic solidified this path for her. "The practical experience with real clients confirmed that public defense is where I want to be. Seeing Ann England’s passion and expertise also reaffirmed my commitment to this field."
Were there any specific mentors or experiences within the clinical program that influenced your career path?"
"Ann England was a huge influence. She caresÌýdeeply about the clients and about us as students," Gallegos says. "She was always available to answer questions and encouraged us to develop our own styles. Every lawyer is going to have a different style and she is so good at letting us find ourselves and encourages us to see what we could become. She encouragesÌýus to become the best version of ourselves."
"I also learned a lot from Jamie Ray with the Korey Wise Innocence Project. She’s been amazing and her knowledge about prisons and prison reform has given me a wholistic perspective of the system as a whole."
How did the clinical program help you develop practical legal skills?
"The clinic was crucial for developing client communication, case management, and advocacy skills," Gallegos notes. "Practicing bond arguments and motion hearings in the supportive environment of the clinics helped me build confidence and refine my skills."
What advice would you give to current law students considering participating in clinical programs?
"Ask as many questions as you have," Gallegos advises. "Faculty are there to help you understand and grow. Don’t be afraid to seek guidance—they won’t make you feel stupid. For the sake of your clients, it’s better to ask questions and learn as much as you can."
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