Contact Us
For more information about this clinic, please contact Tiffany Ige at (808) 956-0829 or childlaw@hawaii.edu.
Child Welfare Clinic
Overview
The Child Welfare Clinic provides compassionate advocacy for children and families involved in the child welfare system. Our mission is to reduce trauma, promote stability, and support preservation and reunification whenever it is safe and appropriate. By centering dignity, collaboration, and care, the Clinic works toward outcomes that protect children while honoring the importance of family connections.
Many families facing involvement with child welfare systems lack the financial resources to obtain legal representation in legal matters that affect whether a child stays with their family. Without counsel, families may inadvertently lose their rights or miss opportunities to secure guardianship, powers of attorney, or adoptions that could keep children safely with trusted caregivers instead of entering foster care.
Providing legal support before a child welfare petition is filed in court allows families to proactively address issues, like securing legal authority for a relative caregiver, that can stabilize the home environment and reduce the likelihood of state intervention. Legal insecurity around caregiving situations often creates bureaucratic barriers: without the correct legal orders, caregivers can be unable to enroll children in school, consent to medical care, or access benefits—all stressors that can contribute to child welfare referrals.
Legal Services
The Child Welfare Clinic offer legal services involving children residing on Oʻahu including:
- Powers of Attorney
- Uncontested Legal Guardianships of a Minor
- Uncontested Adoptions
For inquires, please contact The Child Welfare Clinic at (808) 956-0829.
ADVOCACY OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS
In partnership with Family Court, the Department of Human Services, and other child welfare stakeholders, the Clinic provides law students with meaningful opportunities to engage in hands-on, legal advocacy while helping families and children in the community.
Student opportunities include:
– Developing trial advocacy skills through structured and multi-disciplinary mock trial experiences
– Observing Family Court proceedings, including legal guardianships, adoptions, and child welfare services cases
– Representing clients in Family Court under the close supervision of experienced attorney mentors
faq’S FOR STUDENTS
Students who are in good academic standing and have successfully completed their first-year required courses are eligible to apply. We are looking for students who are motivated, compassionate, and collaborative, and who have a genuine interest in child welfare or family law.
No prior experience is required. While previous experience in child welfare, family law, or court settings is welcomed, it is not necessary. The Clinic is designed to teach students the substantive law, procedures, and practical skills they will need. Students receive hands-on training and real-world experience throughout the semester.
Yes. Students have the opportunity to represent clients in Family Court proceedings under the close supervision of licensed attorneys. This includes direct client interaction, court appearances (where permitted), and participation in case strategy and advocacy.
Students work closely with licensed attorneys who provide ongoing mentorship and guidance. Because the Clinic maintains a small class size, students receive individualized instruction, consistent feedback, and substantial support at every stage of their cases. Our goal is to ensure students feel prepared, confident, and supported in their advocacy.