LSU Law students in the Parole Assistance & Reentry Clinic successfully obtained early release for the clients they represent before the Louisiana Board of Pardons, Committee on Parole. Recently, the law students represented five clients before the Board and obtained unanimous votes granting parole in four of the cases. Through written and oral presentations to the Board of Pardons, the students demonstrated how their clients changed while in prison and were ready to reenter society with stable living and employment plans.
Jessica Carter (LSU Law ‘15) obtained the release of her 69 year-old-client who had been in prison for 27 years. Diagnosed with throat cancer four years ago, his health has been in steady decline since that time. Carter’s work secured his release so that he can go to his home in New Orleans and receive care from his family.
“Representing my client is exactly what I came to law school for, to help people who wouldn’t otherwise have representation, and witnessing his release on parole was surreal knowing I had a hand in his release,” said Carter.
The Parole Assistance & Reentry Clinic represents offenders at the Louisiana State Prison at Angola, Dixon Correctional Institute, Hunt Correctional Center, and the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women. Students are certified to practice law pursuant to Louisiana Supreme Court Rule XX and provide direct representation to individual prisoners in parole and pardon matters as well as collateral legal issues necessary for their successful reentry into civilian life.
Registration for spring 2015 is now open for 3L’s.
