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Death Penalty Clinic

Three Death Penalty Clinic students standing in front of building

Founded in 2001, the clinic seeks justice for individuals facing the death penalty by providing them with high-quality representation; offers students a rich opportunity for meaningful hands-on experience in high-stakes, complex litigation; and exposes problems endemic to the administration of capital punishment.

About Us

Among the handful of capital punishment clinics, the Berkeley Law Death Penalty Clinic is unique in its geographic reach—focusing on representation in the South, where execution rates are highest and resources scarce, but serving clients across the nation, including in California. Learn more.
Information for Students

Under the direct supervision of clinic faculty, students work on all aspects of representing clients facing capital punishment such as field investigation, collaborating with expert witnesses, and researching and drafting pleadings in state and federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. Learn more.
Our Work

The clinic represents clients at trial, in state appellate and post-conviction proceedings, and in federal habeas corpus proceedings, as well as filing amicus curiae briefs in other capital cases.

Faculty

Read more about our faculty and staff.

Elisabeth Semel

Clinic Co-Director

Ty Alper

Clinic Co-Director

Mridula Raman

Interim Deputy Director

APPLY TO THE CLINIC

Clinical Program Contact Information: 510.643.4800 • clinicalprogram@law.berkeley.edu