News Archive

Although the Indiana Court of Appeals reverses approximately 15% of the criminal cases it hears, the Appellate Clinic at Indiana University School of Law - Indianapolis obtained reversals in all three appeals litigated by students during the spring semester. Certified Intern Laura “Katie” Boren obtained a new trial for her client, Regina Jackson, because the trial court refused to grant a continuance to allow the defendant’s late-disclosed witness to testify. Read the opinion. The Court of Appeals reversed Manuel Hopson’s conviction for operating a vehicle while intoxicated because the state failed to prove Hopson operated the vehicle, which he had started to keep warm but never moved after being asked to leave his girlfriend’s apartment. Read the opinion.  Certified Intern, Steve Simcox, argued the Hopson case at Oakland City University, where Judges Najam, May, and Brown heard oral argument. Finally, Certified Intern Jordan Stover secured a reversal for Byron Helms because the state failed to prove Helms recklessly possess paraphernalia. Read the opinion.

Suzy St. John, ’09 is a former appellate clinic student who now works as an appellate attorney at the Marion County Public Defender Agency. She says, “ The Appellate Clinic exemplifies the importance of students having the opportunity to learn practical skills in law school, aside from the typical classroom experience.”

“ Each student learned what it takes to be an excellent appellate advocate,” says Ruth Johnson, appellate administrator at the Marion County Public Defender Agency. “The appellate division appreciates the dedication and enthusiasm of the students in the clinic and the service they provide to the Marion County community in representing indigent clients on direct appeal.”