Kara R. Finck

Kara R. Finck is a Practice Professor of Law and Director of the Interdisciplinary Child Advocacy Clinic at Penn Carey Law School, University of Pennsylvania. She leads a clinical program where students provide direct legal representation to children and families while engaging in systemic reform in child welfare and Family Court.

Research Interests: Her expertise lies in child welfare law, parents’ rights, interdisciplinary legal practice, and law-social work collaboration. She focuses on reforming the family regulation system, enhancing medical-legal partnerships, and centering youth voice in policy. Her work emphasizes holistic, client-centered advocacy and structural change in legal systems affecting vulnerable families.

Recent Scholarly Trends: Her publications over the past decade reflect a consistent focus on the intersection of law, health, and social services. She explores how legal systems can better serve families through interdisciplinary models, preventive interventions, and empowering youth advocates. Her work bridges clinical practice with academic scholarship to drive reform in child welfare policy.

• Scientific Awards & Recognition:

While no formal awards are listed, her scholarship has been widely cited in policy discussions, including testimony before legislative bodies and features in media outlets like WHYY and Next City. She is recognized as a national expert on child welfare reform and family defense.

Advising and Grants: As Director of the Interdisciplinary Child Advocacy Clinic, she supervises law students in clinical placements and systemic projects. She has led initiatives on medical-legal partnerships and interdisciplinary education reform, likely supported by institutional or foundation grants, though specific funding sources are not detailed.

Labs and Teams: She leads the Interdisciplinary Child Advocacy Clinic, a team-based legal practice integrating law students, social workers, and community partners to advocate for children and families. This clinic exemplifies her commitment to collaborative, real-world legal education and reform.