During my 2L summer, I worked as a legal intern with the Habeas Corpus Resource Center (HCRC) in San Francisco. HCRC, part of California’s judicial branch, provides representation to individuals sentenced to death in state and federal habeas corpus proceedings. HCRC investigates and litigates legal errors at every stage of a client’s case, from investigation and trial through sentencing.
My internship focused primarily on claims under the California Racial Justice Act (CJRA), to address and rectify the pervasive role of racial bias in the capital punishment system. I contributed to investigating, developing, and litigating claims of racial bias and discrimination that impacted HCRC’s clients. My work included researching community histories, social science and psychology, diving into statistical analysis, and writing memoranda and motions to bring CRJA claims. I also explored how the CRJA’s remedies might be applied and expanded to better address entrenched racial inequities in capital punishment.
This experience deepened my commitment to fighting racism in all forms in the criminal legal system. Working alongside HCRC’s dedicated attorneys showed me the power of zealous advocacy to challenge systemic injustice and even save lives. As I begin my 3L year at Santa Clara, I am eager to continue studying legal remedies for racial injustice, particularly the future possibilities of the CRJA. I am proud to have joined HCRC in the fight against racial discrimination, and I will carry forward that mission throughout my legal career.
Written by: Caitlin Strickland, Public Interest Scholar
Publish Date: Fall 2025