Who We Are

Cultivating Legal Innovators Committed to Social Justice

The Access to Justice Tech Fellows is a national nonprofit organization founded in 2017 by Miguel Willis, dedicated to developing the next generation of legal professionals who leverage technology for social good. The program, originally established in 2014 at Penn Carey Law, addresses the critical access-to-justice crisis by integrating technological innovation into legal education and practice. Over the years, it has grown into a transformative initiative that prepares future leaders to drive meaningful change within the legal sector and ensure equitable justice for all.

Why We Exist

In today's complex legal environment, millions of Americans face civil legal challenges without adequate assistance. Barriers such as high legal costs, lack of awareness, and systemic inequities prevent marginalized communities from accessing the justice they deserve. We believe that technology holds the key to breaking down these barriers.
Founder Miguel Willis addressing a group of students with Advisor Claudia

25%

of low-income Americans who seek help for their substantial legal problems

50%

of low-income Americans don't seek help specifically because of legal cost

50%+

of low-income Americans don't know where to find a lawyer or whether or not they could even afford one

Our Mission & Vision

The Access to Justice Tech Fellows Program (AJTFP) is dedicated to bridging the justice gap by equipping the next generation of legal professionals with the skills and knowledge to leverage technology for social good. Through immersive training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a focus on social justice, AJTFP fosters leaders who challenge systemic barriers and drive transformative change in the legal sector. Our program emphasizes understanding the root causes of legal inequity while providing practical tools to design and implement technology-driven solutions that promote justice and fairness. Fellows gain invaluable experience in community-centered advocacy, working within a supportive network of like-minded professionals to develop innovations that make legal services more accessible, efficient, and inclusive. By dismantling obstacles within the legal system, they help shape a more equitable future for all.

AJTFP envisions a world where justice is universally accessible, and technology plays a pivotal role in empowering marginalized communities and advancing human rights. By cultivating a new generation of law students proficient in both legal practice and technological innovation, we prepare them to dismantle systemic barriers and advocate for equitable solutions. Our pioneering initiative provides immersive learning experiences that blend law and technology, fostering leadership and social impact. Fellows emerge as advocates for systemic change, transforming legal systems to better serve vulnerable populations. Through their work, they contribute to a more inclusive and just legal landscape, ensuring that technology is harnessed as a powerful tool to enhance access to justice and advance public interest.

Our Approach and Commitment

At the heart of the Access to Justice Tech Fellows Program is a commitment to collaboration and community engagement, is grounded in ethical practices, with a focus on delivering high-quality programs that foster equity, innovation, and excellence.

Here are the key components to our approach:

Co-Designing Solutions

We partner with community organizations and legal service providers to create effective, technology-based solutions tailored to the needs of underserved populations.

Hands-On Experience

Fellows gain practical experience by working directly with organizations tackling legal access issues.

Measuring Impact

We evaluate the outcomes of our projects to ensure lasting, positive change.

Core Values

Innovation

Embracing new ideas and technologies is at the heart of our mission. We recognize that technology has the power to revolutionize how legal services are delivered. By supporting the development and application of cutting-edge legal technologies, we empower communities to navigate legal challenges more effectively. Our commitment to innovation means constantly exploring and adopting new ways to solve legal problems.

Leadership

We are committed to cultivating a new generation of leaders who are adaptive, culturally competent, and dedicated to social impact. Our fellows lead with integrity, compassion, and a strong commitment to advancing equity in legal systems. We believe that leaders who understand the complexities of legal inequity and have the courage to address these challenges will be the key to lasting change.

Collaboration

We recognize that addressing the multifaceted challenges of justice requires working together. Collaboration among legal professionals, technologists, policymakers, and community advocates is essential for co-creating innovative solutions. We believe in the power of partnerships and collective action to drive sustainable change in the legal system.

Equity

We are dedicated to advancing justice through an equity-centered approach that amplifies the needs and voices of marginalized communities. We understand that systemic inequalities must be addressed to create a truly just society. Equity means providing fair and just opportunities for all, particularly for those who have historically been excluded from accessing legal services

Community-Centered Advocacy

Our work is grounded in the lived experiences of the communities we serve. We believe that effective advocacy must be inclusive, responsive, and collaborative. By centering the voices and needs of those most affected by injustice, we ensure that our solutions are not only effective but also empowering for the communities they aim to serve.

Our Team

Our dedicated team consists of legal professionals, technologists, and educators who share a passion for social justice and innovation. Together, we offer fellows mentorship, training, and support to help them maximize their impact.

Claudia Johnson

Claudia Johnson

Advisory Board

Ambar Larancuent, Research Assistant

Ambar Larancuent

Research Assistant

Our Founder

Miguel Willis

"I founded the Access to Justice Tech Fellows program to inspire and equip law students to be catalysts for change in our justice system."

Miguel Willis, Innovator in Residence, Future of the Profession Initiative at Penn Carey Law

Join Us in Advancing Justice

We invite you to join us in reshaping the future of legal services and ensuring justice for all. Whether as a fellow, a partner organization, or a supporter, your involvement is crucial to expanding access to justice and empowering marginalized communities. By partnering with us and hosting a fellow, you become part of a movement that uses technology to innovate legal services and create lasting change for those in need.

Connect with us