Like many students, I went to law school to use my education to make a meaningful impact in the world. As a first-generation student, I did not fully grasp all I would need to learn to be an effective advocate one day. The Elder and Health Law Clinic at the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law was a key part of that journey. I gained practical experience, and I saw positive results through the clinic even before graduating. That kept me motivated to keep going because my experiences in the clinic often reminded me of why I chose to pursue law in the first place and equipped me with the foundation I needed for the future.
Working directly with elderly clients, often on protective restraining order cases and estate planning, was eye-opening. Learning from professors, like Melissa C. Brown, and other supervising attorneys was invaluable. Professor Brown emphasized serving the whole client. That meant meeting people where they were and guiding them through their transitions with empathy and clarity. I saw firsthand how much of a difference digestible legal information and having a reliable advocate could make. Making people feel heard and respected empowered them along their journey. The assistance provided in the clinic translated to a real impact in people’s daily quality of life. I knew I wanted to continue doing that in my work for years to come.
The clinic also helped me practice time management. It gave me experience with legal software which became an advantage in the real world. I learned how to communicate effectively with distressed clients and about Probate Court procedures, both of which have been applicable daily in my current and past roles. As a new attorney, the skills I gained in the clinic helped me hit the ground running, ready to learn and grow. I took what I learned about the law, communication, and the importance of preparation with me during my years in private practice and my transition back to public interest work.
Now, as a guardianship attorney, I continue to help clients through significant life transitions. Thanks to the foundational training in the clinic, approaching each case with compassion and confidence is natural for me. The clinic didn’t just prepare me for work — it helped me grow as a person, lawyer and better understand how to help people. I will continue to carry those skills for the rest of my career. I’m incredibly grateful for that experience. I can’t recommend legal clinics enough if you’re a law student.
By Crystal Viruet Witherell, ’19. Crystal is a guardianship attorney in the Child Abuse Prevention Program at Legal Aid of Sonoma County.