Just before coronavirus struck last spring, “Jalen” was arrested for a carjacking. Too often, people equate arrest with guilt. But in poorer communities of color, just about anyone can get arrested—even children. This was one of those cases.

The justice system normally attempts accountability through prosecution, conviction, and incarceration. However, there’s a way to hold kids accountable and provide healing without causing further harm. It’s called restorative justice.

"David" thought his parents had died. Nearly four decades into a juvenile life sentence, he had lost all contact. His LCCR mitigation specialist, Tim, sought to fix that.

We’ve got a fresh logo, an updated website, and a clearer mission and vision to guide us through the end of 2020 and beyond.

An unprecedented number of current and former public defenders are on the ballot this year.

The election on November 3 will be unlike any New Orleans residents have seen before. An unprecedented number of current and former public defenders are on the ballot vying for judicial seats. These positions are often filled by prosecutors, which unfortunately means that few judges have worked with defendants or have witnessed firsthand their experiences […]

Rickey was barely 10 years old when the police first put him in handcuffs.

“Rickey” is an awesome 13-year-old who aspires to write rhymes and study art. But a mother struggling with addiction gave him little stability at home and even less adult supervision. At age 10, he started acting out at school and getting suspended. And with more free time on his hands, he began stealing things. Subconsciously, […]

Tamekia Williams’ son still has nightmares from his encounter with the Baton Rouge Police Department last year.

2020 has been a tough year in so many ways, but we still have a lot to celebrate in the fight for children’s rights! Three important laws, including the long-awaited Raise the Age Act, take effect this summer to help kids thrive and protect them from the dangers and long-term consequences of incarceration. This progress […]