Pro Bono Programs
Consistent with Pepperdine University's mission to strengthen students for lives of purpose, service, and leadership, the Pro Bono Programs at Pepperdine Caruso Law facilitate pro bono legal services in the local and global community.
Projects
Justice Bus Trips
The Justice Bus Project brings life changing legal help to vulnerable populations living in rural and isolated areas of California through free limited scope legal clinics. Pepperdine law student volunteers meet one-on-one with clients and help eligible individuals complete their paperwork one hundred percent free of charge.
Immigration and Asylum Project
Pepperdine Law partners with the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (LAFLA) to provide stipend-funded positions for students seeking to defend immigrants at risk of removal from the United States. Under expert attorney supervision, the students have worked with clients applying for asylum; those intent on keeping their lawful permanent residency; domestic violence victims seeking protection under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA); families seeking to obtain status under the U Visa as victims of violent crime; and survivors of human trafficking. The students work directly with clients performing client intakes, drafting legal briefs and motions, and appearing in court as co-counsel.
Student-Led Pro Bono Projects
The Annual Fundraising Auction (Advocates for Public Interest Law) raises money for stipends provided to law students working in summer public interest positions.
The Mentoring Program (First Generation Student Association) speaks to junior high school students in the bay area and los Angeles county who are first generation and minority students about college applications, the college experience and grad school.
Spring Break Projects
The Sudreau Global Justice Institute's Spring Break trip is an opportunity for our students to view their law degree through a human rights lens. Students will engage in the various discussions and activities planned each year as well as engage with the culture while visiting historical sights.
Opportunities
Clinical Education Program
The Clinical Education Program at Pepperdine Caruso Law provides opportunities for students to provide pro bono legal services while earning academic credit through clinics, externships, and practicums.
Internship and Fellowship Opportunities
The Sudreau Global Justice Institute Uganda Fellowship is a one-year position open to our recent Pepperdine Caruso Law graduates where they have the opportunity to live and work in Uganda as a mediator and a coordinator for the work of the Global Justice Program throughout the year.
Career Development Office
Students who are interested in internship, fellowship, or volunteer opportunities in public interest organizations and law firms should contact the Career Development Office.
Volunteer Opportunities
The Career Development Office lists volunteer opportunities with legal organizations on Symplicity. Students may also contact the Pro Bono Program Staff for more information.