Karen U. Lindell

Karen U. Lindell is a Senior Lecturer in the Legal Practice Skills Program at Penn Carey Law School, University of Pennsylvania, where she teaches legal practice skills and supports public interest programs.

Education:

• J.D., Vanderbilt University Law School (2012), First Honor Graduate
• B.A. in History, University of Georgia

Her expertise lies in child welfare law, youth justice, and public interest advocacy. She has extensive experience in impact litigation, direct client representation, and policy reform aimed at improving outcomes for youth in the child welfare and justice systems. Her teaching emphasizes practical legal skills and ethical public service.

Her scholarly work focuses on child welfare policy, notably through her co-authored article on the Family First Prevention Services Act, which marks a significant shift in federal child welfare funding toward prevention services. The article reflects her deep engagement with systemic reform in child welfare.

Professional Experience Highlights:

• Senior Attorney, Juvenile Law Center – engaged in litigation and policy advocacy
• Law Clerk to Hon. Kent A. Jordan, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit
• Law Clerk to Hon. Eduardo C. Robreno, U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania

She has not been noted to receive formal scientific awards. There is no public information about her advising graduate students or securing research grants. She is not affiliated with any research labs or formal research teams, as her role is centered on teaching and practical legal training.