The U.S. Constitution guarantees every person accused of a crime the right to a fair trial and effective legal counsel. Yet for many, that right remains inaccessible due to financial barriers. As our President, Justin Magnuson, has said, “This partnership represents a powerful synergy of education, pro bono legal services, community outreach, and our commitment to addressing systemic issues within the criminal justice system.” We believe this collaboration will not only provide immediate support to those in need, but also set a new precedent for meaningful, lasting change.

The Criminal Defense Clinic primarily serves Tarrant County, Texas—the largest county in the country without a public defender’s office—as well as surrounding counties in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Our aim is to support individuals who cannot afford quality legal defense, while also equipping the next generation of attorneys with the skills and experience they need to carry forward this work.

In addition to supporting legal education and defense work, our Practitioner-in-Residence will also lead the development of The Justice Reform Foundation Clean Slate Program. This initiative—developed in alignment with the Texas Clean Slate Coalition—focuses on helping individuals seal or expunge their criminal records. We see this work as essential to removing barriers to opportunity and ensuring second chances for those impacted by the justice system.

We know that employment is one of the most significant factors in reducing recidivism, yet criminal records can stand in the way of jobs, housing, and stability. Through the Clean Slate Program, we are committed to breaking down those barriers by offering legal representation, advocacy, and access to vital community resources.

To bring this vision to life, we’ve collaborated with the L. Clifford Davis Bar Association, local community organizations, and law students across the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Together, we are working toward a comprehensive criminal justice reform agenda that supports Clean Slate legislation and addresses the unique needs of our local communities.

This is more than a partnership—it’s a movement. And we are honored to be at the forefront of creating a justice system that truly serves everyone.