The Exoneration Justice Clinic’s summer internship program has hosted diverse cohorts of students from various institutions since 2021. This year, three law students from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) will join the program at the Notre Dame Law School. They will work on wrongful conviction cases for four weeks starting June 1, 2026.
The EJC provides legal assistance to Mexican nationals facing criminal charges or wrongful convictions. The participating UNAM students were selected by Dr. Imer Flores, a research professor of law at UNAM. The internship aims to strengthen international collaboration among future lawyers dedicated to justice.
Professor Jimmy Gurulé commented on the significance of this development, stating, “This is an exciting development that distinguishes the EJC from other law school innocence clinics in the country.” The EJC has hosted various student cohorts and continues to expand its reach and impact.
G. Marcus Cole, a key figure in the program, emphasized the importance of global legal practice. He stated, “The future of legal practice is not confined by national borders, and our students must be prepared to serve clients and communities across cultures and legal systems.” This perspective reflects a growing trend in legal education that prioritizes international experience.
In addition to this initiative, Nayomi Torres-Velez, a third-year student at Rutgers Law School, recently received the Anderl Scholarship worth $5,600. Torres-Velez serves as co-president of ALIANZA, the Latin American Law Student Alliance. She expressed her gratitude, saying, “Winning this scholarship is not just about furthering my academic achievement but also striving to be resilient in the face of challenges.”
Judge Esther Salas congratulated Torres-Velez on her scholarship achievement. She noted, “We continue to thank those who generously donated to this fund, and we are so grateful that young students like Ms. Torres-Velez will go on to excel in their academic careers and beyond.” This recognition highlights the support for emerging legal professionals committed to advocacy and justice.
The EJC’s collaboration with UNAM reflects a commitment to forming lawyers dedicated to justice. As these students prepare for their roles in this impactful internship, they will contribute valuable insights into ongoing cases and review requests for legal representation.
As the June start date approaches, anticipation builds around the contributions these interns will make. Observers expect that their involvement will enhance both their educational experience and the clinic’s mission.
