Drake University Law School earned an A- ranking for criminal law in preLaw Magazine, placing Drake among the top law schools in the nation for this field.
The publication based the rankings on law schools’ offerings in criminal law, including clinical programs, certificates, externships, partnerships, and courses. The results are reported in preLaw’s Fall 2025 issue.
Drake Law offers students substantial opportunities to learn about and develop skills in the field of criminal law. With courses spanning topics such as prosecution and defense, scientific and expert evidence, and global issues in criminal law, students gain a comprehensive foundation in the field. Through the Drake Criminal Defense, Wrongful Convictions, and Juvenile Delinquency Clinics, they apply their knowledge in real-world settings, representing indigent clients in court appearances, depositions, and negotiations.
The issue also highlights a Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Expungement & Employment Barriers Clinic organized by Professor Colleen Cullen and the Criminal Defense Clinic (CDC) co-hosted with Iowa Legal Aid and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Iota Zeta Omega Chapter at Corinthian Baptist Church. 37 clients were assisted during this Clinic. District 5C Judge Ashley Stewart, her court attendant, and Polk County Attorney Kimberly Graham volunteered their time at the Clinic, which allowed for 25 expungements to be granted on the day of the Clinic. Additionally, all CDC student attorneys were able to represent clients at those hearings.
Professor Colleen Cullen, director of the Criminal Law Clinic, said “The MLK Jr. Day Expungement Clinic embodies the mission of our Criminal Defense Clinic by providing student attorneys the invaluable opportunity to interview indigent clients, advocate in court, and see firsthand how their work can remove real barriers to employment, housing, and opportunity.”
“Although the Criminal Defense Clinic’s primary focus is trial-level advocacy, I teach a holistic approach to criminal defense, one that recognizes the lasting impact a criminal conviction, or even a dismissal, can have on a person’s life. This experience helps our students become more compassionate, effective advocates who understand the broader context of their clients’ circumstances. Expungement clinics are a powerful learning experience that makes a tangible difference in people’s lives,” said Professor Cullen.