This morning, I had the honor of being sworn in as a Maryland Rule 19-220 student attorney. I am excited to begin this new chapter in my legal journey as I join the Criminal Defense and Advocacy Clinic this semester at the University of Baltimore School of Law. I look forward to working closely with real clients and beginning my career in the criminal law field.
The University of Baltimore School of Law’s Clinical Law Program held its Spring 2026 Rule 19-220 Swearing-In Ceremony on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, in the Warnken Moot Courtroom, formally welcoming a new cohort of student attorneys into clinical practice, where they will represent clients for the first time in their legal careers.
The ceremony marked an important milestone for students enrolled in UBalt Law’s clinics, admitting them to the practice of law in Maryland under faculty supervision. Professor Hugh McClean, Associate Professor of Law and Director of the Veterans Advocacy Clinic, delivered opening remarks focused on the important work the student-attorneys will be doing. Elizabeth Keyes, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, introduced The Honorable Shirley Watts, Justice of the Supreme Court of Maryland, who administered the oath.
Students sworn in will serve across a wide range of clinics, including Civil Advocacy, Criminal Defense and Advocacy, Family Law, Immigrant Justice, Community Development, Veterans Advocacy, Mental Health Law, Mediation for Families, the Innocence Project Clinic, and the Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic.
“This morning, I had the honor of being sworn in as a Maryland Rule 19-220 student attorney,” said Makenzie Pennington, Class of 2026. “I am excited to begin this new chapter in my legal journey as I join the Criminal Defense and Advocacy Clinic this semester at the University of Baltimore School of Law. I look forward to working closely with real clients and beginning my career in the criminal law field.”
As Associate Dean Keyes, who directed the Immigrant Rights Clinic for a decade, notes, "UBalt Law’s Clinical Law Program is ranked 4th nationally in recognition of the faculty's dedication to preparing students to practice law rigorously, ethically, and reflectively, while delivering meaningful service to individuals, families, and communities throughout Baltimore and Maryland. Our students work hard and leave the experience transformed."