Restoration and Justice Clinic Successful in Bench Warrant Clearance and Case Dismissal for Client

Pepperdine Caruso Law third-year student Brandi Coleman and second-year student Josette Teja were successful in getting a bench warrant cleared and two criminal cases dismissed for their Restoration and Justice Clinic client, who is a victim of human trafficking.

Coleman said, "Simultaneously utilizing my knowledge on human trafficking while navigating the complexities of privilege and proximity in age–both of which allowed me to help our client–made for an incredibly eye-opening semester. Approaching such a disheartening area of the law was at times overwhelming, but also profoundly inspiring as I saw how even the smallest steps forward could mean everything to someone who has been a victim of such egregious wrongs.”

Teja added, “Being similar in age to our client, it felt empowering to be able to use my legal education to help in this impactful way. Navigating the justice system from the perspective of a human trafficking victim was arduous and disheartening at times, but providing this relief to our client renewed my passion for the law and advocacy. I hope this small success will be one of many for our client and the Restoration and Justice Clinic as a whole.”

The public defender who partnered with the clinic commented, “More than happy to help! I did a similar clinic in law school, it really is incredible work.  Can’t wait for the students to see some hard work rewarded.”