Her primary clinical work involves the instruction, training, and case supervision of third-year law students who are representing defendants in criminal and delinquency trials. As part of the program, students take a course taught by Professor Kaplan that examines criminal law, criminal procedure, professional responsibility, and trial practice. Many of the clients her students defend are juveniles, and this experience, says Professor Kaplan, gives students important insight into the sociological issues affecting young offenders. This program works on many different levels.
Students receive valuable training, and defendants receive necessary representation.
Professor Kaplan has been active in the leadership of the Massachusetts Bar Association, serving on its Board of Delegates and a number of key committees. She is a member of the board of directors of the Children's Legal Services, Inc., as well as a faculty member for the Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education and the Committee for Public Counsel Services' zealous advocacy training program.