In a recent case highlighting the Youth Justice Education Clinic’s (YJEC) commitment to holistic advocacy, the team’s dedicated efforts supported a 16-year-old student unfairly caught in the school-prison nexus. Referred by a defense partner from the Alternate Public Defender, the student faced severe consequences after an incident in which her boyfriend brought a gun to campus. Acting out of concern for safety, the student instinctively picked up the gun to prevent further harm. Despite her intent, the school district pursued an expulsion recommendation under its zero-tolerance firearms policy.
Her split-second decision resulted in her arrest and a custodial interrogation by school police — conducted without advising her of her Miranda rights. The student was subsequently suspended, relegated to virtual learning, and recommended for expulsion, a mark that could significantly impact her educational future.
With limited time, YJEC student Grace Voissem '26 took the lead in compiling a robust defense. She reviewed the student’s school records and discovered a history of impulsive behavior and inattention, factors that had gone unaddressed by the school district. Notably, the district had failed to provide a special education evaluation, an omission Voissem highlighted in a formal letter that underscored the district’s legal obligation to assess students in need. Although the district agreed to evaluate the student, it refused to halt the expulsion process.
Voissem’s advocacy extended to preparing evidence binders and crafting a compelling opening statement, which YJEC Attorney Stacy Nuñez '22, a former YJEC alumna, delivered during the expulsion hearing. Nunez vigorously cross-examined the school police officer responsible for the interrogation, highlighting the procedural rights violations. Her powerful presentation moved two panelists to tears, illustrating the emotional weight of the case and the impact of the defense’s argument.
After the hearing, the principal who recommended expulsion praised Nuñez for her efforts, and the student’s family expressed immense gratitude to the YJEC team. “Our clients told us they were initially hesitant to call, feeling hopeless about their situation,” Nuñez shared. “Today, they hugged us, deeply appreciative for our support — not only during the hearing but also in the ongoing advocacy that has been life-changing for them.”
Beyond the expulsion hearing, YJEC is working to enroll the student in a supportive school environment that meets her needs. YJEC social worker Cindy Galvan will ensure the student receives community-based therapy and other essential resources, emphasizing a rehabilitative approach that keeps her out of the juvenile legal system.
This case underscores YJEC’s dedication to guiding young people through complex and challenging circumstances with a commitment to justice, empathy, and second chances. Through holistic legal support, the YJEC team offers its clients a renewed path forward, dismantling obstacles in the education and youth justice systems while promoting resilience and hope. To learn more about the clinic, please visit their website.