Center for Criminal Justice, Law, & Ethics

Forming Justice Professionals

The Center for Criminal Justice, Law, and Ethics at Franciscan University champions a justice system grounded in natural law and moral truth. We form students and professionals committed to ethical leadership in law enforcement, criminal justice, legal practice, and public policy.

Through continuing legal education (CLE), student mentorship, and public initiatives, the Center equips criminal justice professionals to integrate Catholic moral tradition and natural law reasoning into real-world decision-making.

Whether you're a seasoned attorney or a student aspiring to serve the common good, the Center is your gateway to transformative learning, professional development, and principled justice.


These state-approved CLE courses offer non-academic credit and help professionals apply Catholic moral reasoning and natural law in legal and justice work.

Discover insights on criminal justice ethics, natural law in action, and upcoming CLE opportunities in our digital publication, The Compass.

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Rooted in natural law and the Catholic moral tradition, the Center for Criminal Justice, Law, and Ethics forms justice professionals and future leaders through a range of focused initiatives:

  • Continuing legal education rooted in natural law
  • Speaker Series featuring experts and professional on ethical justice
  • Publications and public engagement on justice ethics
  • Student research and mentorship opportunities
  • Designation of Center “Fellows” 
Integration of the Franciscan mission into justice policy
  • Career education and annual networking events
  • Annual Career Day each fall

Discover how our initiatives shape a more just and ethical society.

Reach out to Dr. Charles Nemeth, Program Director, who would be happy to assist.