Developing compassionate lawyers for everyday people
Established in 2025, Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School (AJMLS) proudly partnered with Gideon’s Promise (GP) and The Barristers Society (TBS) to launch the Criminal and Civil Justice Institute (CCJI) at Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School. This initiative established an unprecedented collaboration between legal education and frontline advocacy to prepare the next generation of legal advocates – developing compassionate lawyers for everyday people.
The CCJI serves as a dynamic hub in Atlanta, dedicated to equipping law students and early-career attorneys with the practical skills, values, and mentorship needed to make an immediate impact on local communities. With a mission to advance justice for the underserved, the institute aims to raise the standard of representation in criminal and civil cases while providing invaluable hands-on training to AJMLS students and alumni. Through this partnership, the CCJI connects AJMLS students with accomplished legal professionals—referred to as Law Partners—to participate in externships, internships, and mentorship programs. These experiences will bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world practice, fostering a pipeline of legal talent committed to advocating for justice in Atlanta and beyond.
AJMLS, with its legacy of empowering both traditional and non-traditional law students, joins forces with GP, a trailblazer in transforming public defense to ensure equal justice for all, and TBS, an organization dedicated to educating and developing attorneys who are conscious of the various disparities facing their potential clients. Together, they form a partnership that not only addresses the urgent need for high-quality legal representation but also redefines the way future lawyers are trained.
The CCJI will also host workshops, seminars, and continuing legal education programs designed to benefit both students and practicing attorneys, particularly those working in solo or small-firm practices. Additionally, CCJI will provide mentorship and career counseling to AJMLS students and alumni, creating a sustainable support system for legal professionals.
The Criminal and Civil Justice Institute at Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School embodies a shared vision for a legal system that delivers just outcomes for all. This innovative partnership marks a transformative moment in legal education and advocacy, setting a new standard for collaboration and impact.
Throughout the summer, the CCJI leaders will be working on programming for the 2025-2026 academic year, with opportunities for training, mentorship, networking, and volunteers. If you are an AJMLS student, alumni, or bar member who wants to be notified of program developments and opportunities, click here.
“This program is truly one of a kind, setting a new standard in legal education. We are proud to lead the way in preparing the next generation of highly skilled and ethical professionals.”
– Dean Jace C. Gatewood
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Criminal and Civil Justice Institute different from the Criminal Justice Certificate Program (CJCP)?
Yes, the Institute and Certificate Program are separate but complementary programs. Information about the CJCP may be found here.
Is Gideon’s Promise (GP) separate from AJMLS?
Yes, Gideon’s Promise is a national non-profit organization revolutionizing public defense by building a movement of passionate and capable public defenders. GP empowers attorneys to provide zealous advocacy and drive systemic change within the criminal justice system.
What is the Barristers Society (TBS)?
The Barristers Society is committed to mentoring and training legal advocates who address the barriers to justice of their clients and various communities. Through innovative programming, TBS develops attorneys who champion justice and equality.
I am interested in future CCJI programming, what can I do now?
Click here to submit your information.
For current AJMLS students, what are the main objectives?
Training and development, career counseling and mentoring, internships, and externships.
For professional training programs, what areas of law will the CCJI focus on?
Criminal defense, civil rights, and plaintiff personal injury.
In the Community
AJMLS student, Justice Woods, and Attorney Torris Butterfield outside City of Atlanta Municipal Court. Woods, completing an externship with Butterfield, assisted in court before the Honorable Teresa Mann in connection with a DUI case.