FSU College of Law to Launch First Amendment Clinic

Set to begin operations later this academic year, the clinic will offer pro bono legal representation to people and organizations nationwide whose rights to free speech, religious liberty, freedom of association and assembly, or freedom of the press are at risk.
Professor Denise M. Harle, a partner at Shutts & Bowen LLP and nationally recognized expert in constitutional law. (College of Law)
Set to begin operations later this academic year, the clinic will offer pro bono legal representation to people and organizations nationwide whose rights to free speech, religious liberty, freedom of association and assembly, or freedom of the press are at risk.
Suzi Baugh
July 16, 2025

Florida State University’s College of Law is launching a new academic and legal initiative that’s attracting national attention for its anticipated role in shaping high-impact constitutional litigation.

Professor Denise M. Harle, a partner at Shutts & Bowen LLP and nationally recognized expert in constitutional law. (College of Law)

The first and only First Amendment Clinic in the state will focus on defending First Amendment rights and be led by Professor Denise M. Harle, a partner at Shutts & Bowen LLP and nationally recognized expert in constitutional law.

Set to begin operations later this academic year, the clinic will offer pro bono legal representation to people and organizations nationwide whose rights to free speech, religious liberty, freedom of association and assembly, or freedom of the press are at risk.

“The excitement surrounding the launch of this clinic is a testament to both the need for this work and the caliber of leadership guiding it,” said Erin O’Hara O’Connor, dean of the FSU College of Law. “We are deeply grateful to Professor Harle for bringing her nationally recognized expertise and unwavering commitment to constitutional advocacy to FSU Law. Under her leadership, the clinic will provide our students with an exceptional opportunity to engage in meaningful, real-world work at the intersection of law, public service and democratic values.”

With Harle at the helm, students will assist with working on real cases and defending First Amendment rights across a variety of platforms, including public forums, educational institutions, digital platforms, government spaces and private workplaces. They will get hands-on experience in all aspects of legal representation by conducting interviews, developing legal strategies, drafting court filings and amicus briefs, and appearing before courts and administrative bodies.

Harle brings decades of experience to the clinic, having served as senior counsel at Alliance Defending Freedom, deputy solicitor general in the Florida Attorney General’s Office and a partner at Shutts & Bowen LLP. She has litigated constitutional cases before state and federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.

“This clinic is about real impact for students and for the country,” Harle said. “We’re creating a space where law students can learn by doing, and where the rights of everyday Americans are protected through dedicated, principled advocacy. I’m excited to begin this new chapter and help equip the next generation of lawyers to thoughtfully engage with one of the most dynamic areas of law.”

In addition to hands-on legal work, students will participate in a weekly seminar exploring First Amendment law, core advocacy skills, and the broader societal and ethical implications of their cases. The clinic will also serve as a hub for public engagement and dialogue through conferences, lectures and events focused on civil liberties and constitutional issues.

For more information, visit law.fsu.edu/first-amendment-clinic.