Executive Clemency Clinics

The Second Look Project, created by Professor Steve Zeidman with support from the Defenders Clinic,  is dedicated to supporting incarcerated individuals in their clemency and parole petitions. To date, they have worked with more than 60 people, and secured freedom for 22. Having received 1,800+ requests, the work they plan to do for so many incredible reformed New Yorkers is only just beginning.

The Clemency Project, a vital initiative of CAL, diligently submits applications for individuals seeking relief through executive clemency. Regrettably, clemency is often either underutilized or sought without adequate legal guidance. However, The Clemency Project devotes significant time and effort to working closely with clients, understanding their narratives, and passionately advocating for clemency on their behalf. The approach is centered on authenticity, ensuring that the true essence of each individual's humanity is highlighted.

As an integral part of CAL's commitment to advocating for clients beyond their convictions and appeals, The Clemency Project firmly believes that people should not endure perpetual suffering due to their past convictions. Pardons are essential in acknowledging the disproportionate impact convictions have on non-citizens, while commutations recognize that individuals evolve and grow over time. No one should be solely defined by a single act, especially one that may have occurred years or even decades ago. The Clemency Project stands as a beacon of hope, providing essential back-end advocacy for clients still facing the consequences of these long-past convictions.

It is within these parameters that The Clemency Project operates. Presently, we can represent individuals with a conviction from Manhattan or the Bronx, or those who were living in Manhattan or the Bronx at the time they were sentenced. Due to limited capacity, we may not be able to respond to every request for representation. Despite these limitations, our dedication to the cause remains steadfast, advocating passionately for those we have the privilege to represent.