Name: Public Record as a Tool for Justice
Start: 2026-08-26T14:30:00-0700
End: 2026-08-26T15:30:00-0700

Wednesday August 26, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Public records laws are powerful tools available to advocates serving vulnerable Tennesseans. From uncovering systemic failures to exposing barriers to housing, education, healthcare, and other services, access to government records can directly support impactful legal advocacy. This session provides a practical, Tennessee-focused guide to using the Tennessee Public Records Act (TPRA) as a broader strategy for advancing civil legal services. Participants will learn how to draft effective records requests, respond to common agency resistance tactics, and strategically integrate public records into advocacy efforts. The session will also explore recent and active litigation shaping access to public records—including disputes involving delays, redactions, and asserted exemptions. The presentation will also explore emerging legislative developments that may affect transparency and access rights across the state, including examples of potential reforms from other states. Designed for both new and experienced advocates, this session will equip attendees with concrete tools to strengthen their advocacy, enhance fact development, and promote government accountability on behalf of their clients. The session will create interactive opportunities to engage in questions and discuss the application of these strategies. The session will also address ethical considerations that arise in public records advocacy, including client counseling, privacy and confidentiality concerns, responsible use of obtained records, and strategic decision making under the rules of professional responsibility.

Speakers

Jennifer Safstrom

Jennifer Safstrom teaches the Stanton Foundation First Amendment Clinic at Vanderbilt Law School. Before joining Vanderbilt's law faculty, Professor Safstrom worked as counsel at the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection and as supervising attorney and clinical teaching... Read More →

Ryan Riedmuller

Ryan Riedmueller is a Clinical Legal Fellow with the Stanton Foundation First Amendment Clinic at Vanderbilt Law School. Before his current role, he clerked for District Judge Anne R. Traum in the United States District Court, District of Nevada. Prior to his clerkship, he graduated... Read More →

Wednesday August 26, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Embassy Suites- Cambridge B

Equal Justice University 2026

Jennifer Safstrom

Ryan Riedmuller

Attendees (10)

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Equal Justice University 2026

Jennifer Safstrom

Ryan Riedmuller

Attendees (10)

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