We use criminal defense to put human rights into action.
CLDC provides direct legal defense to children in conflict with the law in Somaliland.
Every case we take on is both an individual defense and an opportunity to ensure that the law is applied in practice. Through representation in court, we work to protect the rights of our clients while strengthening how the justice system functions as a whole.
Our Approach
In Somaliland, the legal framework protecting children is clear. The Juvenile Justice Law incorporates the principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child into domestic law, including key protections such as acting in the best interests of the child and limiting detention to a measure of last resort and for the shortest time possible.
CLDC’s work focuses on ensuring that these protections are implemented in practice. Through direct legal defense, we advocate for the application of the law in individual cases—challenging unlawful detention, ensuring due process, and working to secure fair outcomes for our clients.
Each case is an opportunity not only to defend a child, but to reinforce how the law should be applied.
Why This Approach Matters
Laws alone do not protect children—implementation does.
Without legal representation, even strong legal protections may not be realized in practice. By providing defense in individual cases, CLDC helps ensure that children are treated in accordance with the law and that legal standards are consistently applied.
Over time, this contributes to a more predictable and fair justice system for all children.
Our Focus Areas
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Migration & Trafficking Cases
Defending children who are criminalized in the context of migration and trafficking.
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Human Rights Defense
Applying the Juvenile Justice Law in practice to ensure that children’s rights are upheld in every case.
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Gender Justice
Defending girls and young women to ensure they receive fair treatment and strong legal representation.
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Death Penalty Cases
Ensuring that no child is subjected to unlawful sentences, including the death penalty prohibited under Somaliland law.
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Torture & Coerced Confessions
Challenging cases where confessions are obtained unlawfully and ensuring fair trial protections.
