The Michigan State University Law Clinic recently visited the Upper Peninsula to meet with a client and their attorney in Escanaba.
The trip was one of a few the clinic has already taken to visit with prosecutors, public defenders and clients. In 2025, the MSU College of Law established the clinic under the leadership of director Bradley Hall in order to address Michigan’s need for well-trained and experienced law practitioners.
Hall describes rural areas of Michigan, notably the Upper Peninsula, as legal tundras. He adds that rural communities struggle to keep attorneys who develop careers by setting down roots.
While part of the MSU Law Clinic, students take part in contributing to six or more cases in a semester and pairs second and third-year students to foster peer-to-peer mentorship. Many cases the clinic is assigned by Hall work on those that have appealed decisions in lower courts but have not gone to trial.
By writing briefs throughout the semester and meeting with incarcerated clients and prosecutors, students develop skills they’ll use soon after completing law school. Those interested in learning more about the MSU Law Clinic can find more information online through the Michigan State College of Law.
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