Comparative Legal Studies in the Dominican Republic
For legal professionals – pre-law students – criminal justice majors
Discover How Justice Crosses Borders
Join us for criminal justice studies in a unique international exchange that blends professional development with cultural immersion. Over the course of seven unforgettable days in the Dominican Republic, you’ll step into the heart of a different justice system—meeting with Dominican judges, visiting detention centers, police stations, and courts—all while enjoying the beaches, flavors, and rhythms of the Caribbean.
This one-of-a-kind tour is built to foster reflection, connection, and understanding between systems of justice—while supporting local communities through sustainable travel practices.
We build this trip collaboratively with college groups, state and county bar associations, law firms, and other professional organizations.
What to Expect
- Meet with local and national judges to exchange insights on court structures, family law, and criminal justice.
- Visit youth detention centers, prisons, and police departments to understand the legal landscape from the inside out.
- Engage with Dominican communities through service, storytelling, and dialogue.
- Relax and recharge at white sand beaches, explore historic sites, and experience vibrant Caribbean culture.
- Travel with purpose: Stay in locally owned accommodations, support small businesses, and invest in local schools.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrival
- Police Station Tours
- Welcome Dinner & Reflections
Day 2:
- Court Observations
- Legal Exchange with Dominican Judges
- Beach Time
- Dinner & Reflections
Day 3:
- Juvenile Detention Center Tour
- Baseball Academy Visit
- Dance Lesson Night
Day 4:
- Dominican Jail Tour
- Playa Sosua
- Optional: Nightlife & Dancing
Day 5:
- Volunteer in Elementary School
- Holocaust & Refugee Studies at Sosúa Museum
- Optional: Nightlife & Dancing
Day 6:
- Cayo Arena Snorkeling
- Shopping in Cabarete
- Optional: Nightlife & Dancing
Day 7:
- Optional: Monkey Jungle & Ziplining
- Departure
Legal Professionals: Family & Friends Welcome
Interested in bringing family or a partner along?
Talk to the group leaders about whether this can be expanded. We offer a Family & Friends Tour that runs concurrently with the legal itinerary. While you participate in legal visits, your guests can volunteer in schools, enjoy excursions – while sharing meals and cultural activities with you. You will be separate from them during the legal studies part of the tour.
Included
- Round-trip airfare
- Accommodations (double occupancy)
- Full-time bilingual tour director
- All in-country transport
- Meals, excursions, and educational activities
Excludes personal spending, optional excursions, tips, and domestic transport to JFK.
Why Travel with ILI?
Sustainable & Ethical Travel
We pay fair trade wages and exclusively partner with locally owned hotels, restaurants, and organizations.
Real Learning, Real Impact
We’ve invested over six figures into Dominican schools, non-profits, and businesses. Every trip deepens our partnerships and multiplies the impact.
Authentic Partnerships
We work alongside local leaders—not around them—to ensure every visit benefits the communities we learn from.
Ready to Join?
Learn More about the Law, Justice, and Crossing Cultures in the Dominican Republic
Bring your insight. Bring your curiosity. Join us for an unforgettable journey into comparative justice, culture, and community.