CJJC: Pretrial and Trial Cases

The CJJC’s pretrial and trial work centers on providing zealous, client-centered representation to youth facing criminal charges in Cook County criminal courts. Students advocate for our clients at every stage of the criminal process—from pretrial motions to trial preparation and litigation to plea negotiations and sentencing. Our work employs a holistic defense model, recognizing that effective advocacy for young people must address not only legal outcomes, but also their emotional, educational, and familial needs.

By working intensively on a select number of cases at a time, the CJJC seeks to challenge the systemic disadvantages that affect youth in the criminal justice system.

Read more about the clinic’s work in our 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 significant achievements reports.