Sustainable Clinical Legal Education: Models of Cooperation with Legal Organizations and Community Engagement

Abstract

Clinical legal education (CLE) serves as a crucial bridge between legal theory and practice, equipping students with practical skills while providing legal assistance to marginalized communities. Despite its significance, the long-term sustainability of CLE programs faces persistent challenges, including financial constraints, limited institutional support, and evolving societal needs. This article examines collaborative models that enhance the resilience of CLE by fostering strategic partnerships with law firms, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), bar associations, and community legal aid centers. Drawing on case studies from diverse legal systems, the study identifies key factors for sustaining CLE initiatives, such as effective funding mechanisms, supportive policy frameworks, and deeper institutional integration. The findings underscore that embedding CLE within formal legal education and cultivating multi-stakeholder collaborations can significantly enhance its educational value and social justice impact.