Children Law Center of Minnesota - St. Paul, MN

Championing the Rights of Foster Care Youth

Children Law Center of Minnesota (CLC) is a unique non-profit law firm based in the Midway area of St. Paul, Minnesota. Established in 1995, CLC is the only private organization in the state that provides direct, free legal representation exclusively to children. Their mission is to promote the legal rights and well-being of youth, particularly those navigating the complexities of the foster care and child protection systems. By mobilizing a network of over 300 volunteer attorneys-trained and supported by CLC's expert staff-the organization ensures that the most vulnerable members of society have a powerful voice in the court decisions that shape their lives.

CLC represents children aged 10 and older who are in foster care. Their attorneys advocate for the child's expressed wishes regarding Child Custody, placement, and visitation. Unlike a Guardian ad Litem who argues for a child's "best interest," CLC attorneys fight for what the child wants, empowering them to have agency in their own future. Beyond the courtroom, CLC provides holistic support, helping youth access essential services such as Education, healthcare, and housing. They also engage in systemic advocacy, working to change laws and policies to better protect at-risk youth across Minnesota.

Legal & Advocacy Services

• Direct Legal Representation: Pro bono defense of foster youth's rights in court proceedings.
• Foster Care Advocacy: Ensuring stable placements, sibling contact, and appropriate transition plans for aging-out youth.
• Education Advocacy: Protecting the educational rights of state wards to ensure school stability and special education services.
• Systemic Reform: Lobbying for legislative changes to improve the child welfare system.
• Volunteer Training: educating private practice attorneys on the nuances of juvenile law and trauma-informed representation.

Located in the historic Griggs Midway Building, CLC is a beacon of hope for thousands of Minnesota children. They believe that every child deserves a stable home and a lawyer who will listen to them. If you are a youth in care needing help, or an attorney looking to volunteer, the Children Law Center of Minnesota is a critical pillar of justice in the Twin Cities community.