About this session

Rural communities severely lack access to attorneys is a phenomenon known as legal deserts. In child welfare, the challenges are even greater given the number of attorneys often required and the unique skill set necessary to provide high quality representation. In response, the University of Nebraska launched the Children's Justice Attorney Education fellowship program to increase interest, competency, and commitment among rural attorneys practicing in Nebraska's juvenile courts. This innovative approach to continuing legal education provides fellows eight months of education, expert case consultation, and reflective practice. This presentation will discuss the unique challenges for rural child welfare attorneys and how innovative programming improves advocacy. 

Intended Audience: Attorneys, judges, child welfare professionals

Learning objectives