Pepperdine Caruso School of Law Celebrates 10th Anniversary of the Restoration and Justice Clinic
The Restoration and Justice Clinic at Pepperdine University’s Caruso School of Law is marking a milestone decade of providing pro bono legal services to survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, sexual assault, and other gender-based crimes.
Founded to fulfill a dual mission—delivering client-centered representation to vulnerable individuals while training law students in client-centered, trauma-informed practice—the clinic has served as a cornerstone of experiential learning at Caruso Law.
Directed by professor Tanya Cooper, the clinic adopts a holistic approach to gender-based violence cases by integrating civil and criminal remedies. Clinic services include securing domestic violence restraining orders, navigating family law matters, seeking dismissal of current criminal cases, and pursuing vacatur (expungement and sealing) relief for past criminal convictions.
Under California’s practical training rules, law students handle active caseloads under direct faculty supervision, interviewing clients and conducting intakes, drafting and filing pleadings, appearing in court hearings, and handling trials and evidentiary hearings.
“Partnering with clients and students to save and change lives has been a transformative experience for all of us. I’m grateful for the opportunity to do this work, and train future attorneys to do it,” Cooper reflected.
Working alongside regional and national legal and social service partners, the clinic ensures survivors receive comprehensive multidisciplinary support. Over the past decade, hundreds of student advocates have gained essential practice skills, providing direct legal relief to low-income clients across Los Angeles and counties across California and nationwide.
About the Pepperdine Caruso School of Law Clinical Education Program
The Pepperdine Caruso School of Law Clinical Education Program operates as a pro bono, public interest law firm housed within the law school. Offering ten specialized clinics, and expansive externship offerings, the program equips students with practical legal skills through direct client service.
Media Contact: Pepperdine University Caruso School of Law Clinical Education Office
Email: lawclinics@pepperdine.edu
Website: Restoration and Justice Clinic