The Role of Legal Clinics in Community Communication

Tarcisius Niwagaba

Humanities Education Kampala International University Uganda

Email: tarcisius.niwagaba@kiu.ac.ug

ABSTRACT

Legal clinics have evolved from being mere educational tools for law students to becoming vital platforms for community empowerment and communication. This paper examines the multifaceted role of legal clinics in advancing community communication, not only by delivering legal services but by fostering civic participation, educating the public on legal rights, and encouraging collaborative problem-solving. Drawing on historical precedents and contemporary models, the study highlights how clinics act as intermediaries between legal institutions and marginalized populations. The paper analyzes case studies, strategic engagement approaches, and technological tools used in legal clinics to enhance community outreach and literacy. It also investigates the systemic challenges clinics face, including resource limitations, community mistrust, and the balance between legal aid and education. Ultimately, the paper argues for a transformative model of clinical legal education that integrates communication strategies and grassroots collaboration to strengthen community agency and improve justice delivery.

Keywords: Legal clinics, community communication, clinical legal education, civic engagement, legal literacy, community legal education (CLE), access to justice.

CITE AS: Tarcisius Niwagaba (2025). The Role of Legal Clinics in Community Communication. NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CURRENT ISSUES IN ARTS AND MANAGEMENT, 6(3):31-38 https://doi.org/10.59298/NIJCIAM/2025/6.3.3138