Meet Our Summer 2025 Law School Interns: Passionate Advocates for Children’s Rights

This summer, Children's Law Center of Central North Carolina is thrilled to welcome five exceptional law school interns to our team. These future attorneys have joined us in our mission to protect and empower children through dedicated legal advocacy. Their insight, energy, and passion for justice have already made a meaningful impact on the families we serve, and we are deeply grateful for their contributions.

2025 Summer Law Interns:

Alejandra Canon, Wake Forest University School of Law, rising 3L – based in Forsyth County

Rachel Claffee, Elon University School of Law, rising 2L – based in Forsyth County

Alexis Croce, Elon University School of Law, rising 3L – based in Guilford County

Sabrina Herrera, Wake Forest University School of Law, rising 2L – based in Forsyth County

Jessica Todd, Elon University School of Law, rising 2L – based in Guilford County.

Each intern brings a unique perspective to our work, and together they have become an integral part of our Custody Advocacy Program. Whether observing court proceedings, supporting case investigations, conducting legal research, or preparing court reports, our interns are gaining firsthand experience that no classroom can replicate.

Sabrina Herrera says:
“CLC takes on a crucial role advocating for the children's best interest, but they fill that role tremendously. I enjoy the hands-on work and observing the ways the attorneys manage complex situations while maintaining compassion."

At CLC, we are proud to offer law students the opportunity to engage in real-world legal work that makes a tangible difference in children's lives. Our interns assist attorneys in some of the most sensitive and complex cases in the civil legal system, cases involving high-conflict custody disputes and domestic violence. In turn, these students are developing practical skills, trauma-informed approaches, and a deep sense of empathy that will shape them into effective advocates long after their time at CLC.

Alexis Croce shares:
“My internship at the CLC has allowed me to gain valuable experience working directly with children and families navigating complex legal matters. It has reinforced the importance of a holistic, compassionate approach to advocacy, and I am incredibly thankful to the CLC team for helping me discover and develop my strengths as an aspiring attorney.”

Beyond legal training, our interns are part of a community. They attend team meetings, participate in continuing education sessions, and learn from a dedicated group of professionals who are deeply committed to protecting vulnerable children in the Triad. The experience is often eye-opening, and many leave inspired to pursue careers in child advocacy, family law, or public interest work.

Alejandra Canon notes:
“What drew me to the CLC was its mission to give a voice to children in tough situations. I have genuinely enjoyed spending my summer here and have learned so much through firsthand experience. One of my favorite parts has been getting to observe court and seeing how what we learn in the classroom plays out in real life.”

Jessica Todd says:
 I have learned so much during my time at the Children’s Law Center. It has been a wonderful hands-on experience with great exposure to the courtroom and the Guardian Ad Litem process. I have enjoyed collaborating with the supervising attorneys and fellow interns and am thankful to have had this opportunity.”

Having fresh perspectives and curious minds in our office each summer also benefits CLC. Our staff gain valuable support and insight from emerging legal professionals, while the interns’ presence helps us serve more children with the attention and care each case deserves. It is a win-win for our organization, our clients, and the next generation of child advocates.

 Rachel Claffee notes:
“From the first day, I have been totally immersed in the process. It is very hands on. As interns, we talk to parents, children, and relatives, dive into case files and reports, spend time in court, and are always learning something new! This internship has also challenged me to mix all the things I learn in class with managing real, human relationships.”

We are so grateful to this year’s cohort for their dedication, empathy, and hard work. Their presence has been a bright light in our offices this summer, and we look forward to seeing where their journeys take them next.

From left: Alejandra Canon, Sabrina Herrera, Jessica Todd, Alexis Croce, and Rachel Claffee