Understanding
Key Provisions People Are Discussing in
SB 215
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SB 215 proposes creating a special review committee where a designated panel would examine eligible cases and determine whether relief should be granted.
Instead of automatically overturning convictions, the panel would review each case individually and decide whether the conviction or sentence should be reconsidered.
Under the proposal, members of the review panel would be appointed by the governor. Because the current governor has publicly expressed strong opposition to broad relief for individuals convicted by non-unanimous juries, some advocates have raised concerns about how the panel might approach these cases.
Supporters of the bill say the process creates a formal mechanism for reviewing older non-unanimous jury convictions. Others argue that the structure of the panel and the finality of its decisions could make meaningful relief difficult for many applicants.
Decisions cannot be appealed
The bill states that if the committee denies relief, the decision is considered final and cannot be appealed or reconsidered.
Why this is debated
Some legal experts believe a final decision without appeal could limit oversight and judicial review.
Others believe the goal is to create a streamlined process that avoids long litigation and allows cases to move through the system more quickly.
The application window is very short
The bill requires people to file their application within one year after the law takes effect.
After that, the committee would no longer accept applications.
Why this is debated
Some people worry that individuals in prison may have difficulty gathering:
• trial records
• appellate records
• legal assistance
within such a limited timeframe.
Others argue that setting a deadline allows the state to process cases within a defined period instead of creating an open-ended system.
Additional Structural Questions Raised
Readers may also notice a few additional structural elements in the bill:
• The program would expire after three years unless extended.
• The committee operates within the Department of Public Safety and Corrections rather than the courts.
• The committee determines parole eligibility, not whether the conviction itself should be overturned.
• Some readers have also raised questions about how certain information could realistically be verified. For example, parts of the proposal discuss determining whether jurors voted to acquit versus selecting a responsive verdict. In practice, this may be difficult to confirm because jury voting details are not always recorded. Each parish may handle jury polling differently, and in some cases jurors are not polled at all, meaning the specific vote breakdown may not exist in the trial record.
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Special Review Process for Non-Unanimous Jury Convictions
Purpose of the Bill
Senate Bill 215 proposes creating a special review process for individuals who were convicted by non-unanimous.
The bill would establish a Special Committee on Parole for Non-Unanimous Jury Convictions within the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections.
The committee would review cases where individuals claim they were convicted by a non-unanimous jury and determine whether the conviction resulted in a miscarriage of justice.
If the committee finds both of the following:
• The conviction was based on a non-unanimous jury verdict
• The verdict resulted in a miscarriage of justice
then the committee may grant parole eligibility for that person.
Who Would Review the Cases
All members would be appointed by the governor.
The committee must vote unanimously (5-0) to approve relief.
The bill proposes a five-member committee made up of experienced legal professionals:
• Three retired appellate court judges or Louisiana Supreme Court justices
• One retired district attorney or assistant district attorney
• One retired public defender or assistant public defender
What a Person Must Show
A person applying under SB 215 must first prove that:
Their conviction was based on a non-unanimous jury verdict.
If that is proven, the committee then evaluates whether the conviction resulted in a miscarriage of justice (not a legal term).
The bill allows the committee to consider several factors, including:
• Whether some jurors voted to acquit
• Whether jurors voted for lesser charges
• The strength of the state’s case
• The length of jury deliberations
• The nature of the offense
• The quality of legal representation at trial and appeal
• Any evidence of racial bias during prosecution.
Application Requirements
To apply, a person must submit:
• A formal application to the special committee
• A certified copy of the entirety of their direct appeal showing the non-unanimous verdict
•If no direct appeal has taken place then a certified copy of trial court record.
An affidavit confirming the information in the application is accurate​
If a person cannot obtain the documents immediately, they may still apply while waiting for the clerk of court to provide them.
non -anonymous juries verdicts can be proven by court record exclusively.
Clerks of court must provide requested records within 90 days.
District Attorneys can file written response to applications.
Hearing Process
If the committee determines the verdict was non-unanimous, and it resulted in a miscarriage of justice, the case may proceed to a hearing.
During the hearing:
• The applicant may testify
• Victims or family members may submit statements
• The district attorney may respond
• Victims cannot be compelled to testify, but they are notified and may participate if they choose.
Voting Requirement
The committee must vote unanimously for relief.
All five members must agree that:
• The conviction came from a non-unanimous jury verdict, and
• The verdict resulted in a miscarriage of justice.
If the committee does not reach a unanimous decision, relief is denied.
Time Limits
The bill includes strict deadlines.
• Applications must be filed within one year after the law takes effect.
• The program would expire after three years unless extended by the legislature.
Important Limits
SB 215 also states that:
• A denial by the committee cannot be appealed.
• Each person may file only one application.
• The committee’s decision is considered final.
However, the bill does not prevent someone from pursuing other legal remedies unrelated to the non-unanimous jury issue.
Why This Bill Matters
SB 215 attempts to create a special pathway for reviewing convictions obtained under Louisiana’s former non-unanimous jury system.
Instead of reopening every case automatically, the bill proposes a panel of legal experts to evaluate whether individual convictions may have resulted in a miscarriage of justice.
For people convicted under the non -unanimous juries system before 2019, the bill could provide a new avenue to seek parole eligibility based on the circumstances of their trial.
Understanding
Key Provisions People Are Discussing in
HB 219
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Individuals convicted by non-unanimous juries may request resentencing
HB 219 creates a legal pathway for individuals convicted by non-unanimous jury verdicts (10-2) to request a review of their sentence in court.
Rather than automatically overturning convictions, the bill allows a person to file a motion for resentencing in the district court where the conviction occurred.
Filing deadline for applications
The bill requires individuals seeking review to file their motion before August 1, 2027.
Supporters say a deadline helps organize the review process.
Some advocates note that strict deadlines may limit access for people who struggle to obtain legal records or legal assistance.
Court must confirm eligibility
If the judge grants the motion, the court may:
• vacate the original sentence
• impose a new sentence
• give the individual credit for time already served
Guidance for new sentencing
In some cases, the bill provides guidance that a new sentence may fall within a range of approximately 20 to 40 years, depending on the legal circumstances of the case. D.As may ask for higher sentence but must prove to the judge that a higher sentence is warrant.
Victims are notified and may participate
The bill requires that victims be notified of the hearing and given the opportunity to provide written or oral victim impact statements.
Habitual offender enhancements cannot be added
HB 219 states that the new sentence cannot be enhanced using habitual offender laws during the resentencing process.
Judges may determine parole eligibility
When imposing a new sentence, the court may determine whether parole eligibility should apply.
This could affect how much time a person serves after resentencing.
Review Process for Non-Unanimous Jury Convictions
Purpose of the Bill
House Bill 219 proposes creating a legal pathway for individuals convicted by non-unanimous juries (10-2 verdicts) to seek review of their sentence.
HB 219 recognizes that the Louisiana Legislature has the authority to create a broader review process for people affected by these verdicts.
Who Could Apply
The bill applies to individuals who:
• Were convicted by a non-unanimous jury verdict
• Are still serving a sentence for that conviction
• Have not completed their full sentence
Filing for Review
Under HB 219, a person could file a motion for resentencing in the district court where the conviction occurred.
The motion must be filed before August 1, 2027.
If the court confirms the conviction involved a non-unanimous jury and the person is still under sentence, the court may schedule a resentencing hearing.
What Happens at the Hearing
At the hearing, the court would review the case and determine whether a new sentence is appropriate.
If the motion is granted:
• The original sentence may be vacated
• The court may impose a new sentence
• Credit must be given for all time already served
•D.A can request a higher sentence
•Victims have the option to participate in hearings.
The court may also determine parole eligibility when issuing the new sentence.
Why This Bill Is Being Discussed
Supporters say HB 219 creates a structured legal path for courts to reconsider sentences that resulted from non-unanimous jury verdicts.
The bill attempts to balance judicial review, fairness, and procedural safeguards for those affected by Louisiana’s former 10-2 jury system.
Time Limits
Under the bill, a person would need to file a motion for resentencing in the district court where the conviction occurred no later than August 1, 2027. The bill also requires that hearings be scheduled within a reasonable timeframe and that victims be notified in advance so they may provide statements if they choose. This deadline creates a defined window for eligible individuals to seek judicial review of sentences connected to Louisiana’s former non-unanimous jury system.
Why This Bill Matters
House Bill 219 attempts to address this issue by creating a legal process that would allow courts to review certain sentences and determine whether resentencing may be appropriate.
Supporters believe this type of review allows the justice system to reconsider sentences connected to a practice that has since been declared unconstitutional, while still allowing courts to evaluate each case individually.
Understanding Current Reform Efforts in Louisiana
​The following summaries reflect publicly available statements and perspectives regarding current legislation. They are shared for informational and educational purposes only.
JAI Foundation does not endorse political candidates or political parties.
Understanding
Key Provisions People Are Discussing in
HB 532
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Proposal to place the issue before Louisiana voters
HB 532 proposes a constitutional amendment, meaning the final decision would be placed before Louisiana voters in a statewide election.
This approach allows the public to decide whether individuals convicted by non-unanimous juries before 2019 should have access to a legal pathway for review.
Addressing convictions from the former 10-2
The bill focuses on convictions obtained under Louisiana’s former non-unanimous jury law, which allowed verdicts such as 10-2 or 11-1.
These verdicts were later ruled unconstitutional by the United States Supreme Court in Ramos v. Louisiana (2020).
Creating a voter-approved pathway for review
HB 532 does not itself establish the full review process.
Instead, it proposes changing the Louisiana Constitution so the state can create a pathway for certain individuals convicted under the former jury system to seek review of their case.
Role of courts in reviewing cases
If voters approve the amendment, Louisiana courts would likely play a role in determining:
• whether a conviction involved a non-unanimous jury verdict
• whether the individual qualifies for review under the law
Public discussion about how to address past convictions
HB 532 is being discussed as part of a broader conversation about how Louisiana should respond to convictions obtained under the former 10-2 jury system. Some view the amendment as a way to allow voters to participate in deciding how the state should address the legacy of that law.
Balancing fairness, finality, and public safety
Supporters and critics often discuss how proposals like HB 532 should balance:
• fairness for individuals convicted under the former system
• stability of past convictions
• the practical impact on courts and the justice system
Constitutional Amendment
Related to Non-Unanimous Jury Convictions
Purpose of the Bill
House Bill 532 proposes a constitutional amendment that would allow Louisiana voters to decide whether individuals convicted by non-unanimous juries before 2019 should have the opportunity to seek relief.
The bill recognizes that Louisiana previously allowed 10-2 jury verdicts, a practice the United States Supreme Court ruled unconstitutional in Ramos v. Louisiana (2020).
HB 532 would place the question before voters to determine whether a process should exist to review these convictions.
Who Could Apply
If approved by voters, the amendment would apply to individuals who:
• were convicted by a non-unanimous jury verdict
• were convicted before Louisiana changed its jury law in 2018
• are still serving a sentence for that conviction
These individuals could then seek review under the procedures established by the state.
Filing for Review
If the amendment becomes law, individuals meeting the eligibility criteria could file a request for review in the appropriate Louisiana court.
The court would then determine whether the conviction resulted from a non-unanimous jury verdict and whether the case qualifies for further review.
What Happens if the bill passes
If HB 532 passes through the legislature, it would be placed on a statewide ballot for Louisiana voters.
If voters approve the amendment, the state would create a process allowing certain individuals convicted by split juries to seek review of their case.
Courts would then determine how those cases should proceed.
Important Safeguards
The proposal includes several safeguards intended to maintain judicial oversight.
These include:
• review conducted through Louisiana courts
• verification that the conviction involved a non-unanimous verdict
• continued opportunities for victim notification and participation
These safeguards are intended to ensure that each case receives individual legal review.
Why This Bill Is Being Discussed
Supporters argue that voters should have the opportunity to decide whether individuals convicted under that system should receive a pathway to review.
Time Limits
HB 532 would require that individuals seeking relief file their application within a defined timeframe after the amendment takes effect.
Specific filing deadlines would be established to allow courts to manage the review process.
Why This Bill Matters
HB 532 represents one possible legislative approach to addressing the impact of Louisiana’s former 10-2 jury law.
By placing the issue before voters, the bill allows the public to determine whether the state should create a process to review convictions obtained under the former system.
What Organizations and Leaders Are Saying
Contact Louisiana Senators
If you believe Louisiana should address the legacy of non-unanimous jury convictions, respectfully contacting elected officials is one way citizens can participate in the democratic process.
Louisiana Senators play a key role in shaping legislation that affects criminal justice policy across the state.
Community members, families, and supporters who wish to share their perspectives may respectfully contact their senators to express their views on policies related to non-unanimous jury convictions.
The contact information below comes directly from the official Louisiana Legislature website.
Louisiana Senate switchboard:
📞 225-342-2040
General mailing address:
Louisiana State Senate
P.O. Box 94183
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
Senator Emails
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Cameron Henry (Senate President) — henryc@legis.la.gov
Representative Shaun Raphael Mena — hse023@legis.la.gov
Representative Charles Anthony Owen — HB 219
hse030@legis.la.gov
Patrick McMath — sen11@legis.la.gov
Mark Abraham — abrahamm@legis.la.gov
Robert Allain — sen21@legis.la.gov
Regina Barrow — barrowr@legis.la.gov
Adam Bass — sen36@legis.la.gov
Gerald Boudreaux — boudreauxg@legis.la.gov
Gary Carter — carterg@legis.la.gov
Stewart Cathey — sen33@legis.la.gov
Heather Cloud — sen28@legis.la.gov
Patrick Connick — connickp@legis.la.gov
Royce Duplessis — sen05@legis.la.gov
Rick Edmonds — sen06@legis.la.gov
Michael Fesi — sen20@legis.la.gov
Franklin Foil — foilf@legis.la.gov
Jimmy Harris — harrisj@legis.la.gov
Bob Hensgens — sen26@legis.la.gov
Valarie Hodges — sen13@legis.la.gov
Katrina Jackson-Andrews — jacksonk@legis.la.gov
Sam Jenkins — sen39@legis.la.gov
Caleb Kleinpeter — sen17@legis.la.gov
Eddie Lambert — lamberte@legis.la.gov
Jay Luneau — luneauj@legis.la.gov
Blake Miguez — sen22@legis.la.gov
Gregory Miller — sen19@legis.la.gov
Beth Mizell — mizellb@legis.la.gov
Jay Morris — morrisjc@legis.la.gov
Brach Myers — sen23@legis.la.gov
Robert “Bob” Owen — sen01@legis.la.gov
Thomas Pressly — sen38@legis.la.gov
Edward Price — pricee@legis.la.gov
Mike Reese — sen30@legis.la.gov
Alan Seabaugh — sen31@legis.la.gov
Larry Selders — sen14@legis.la.gov
Jeremy Stine — sen27@legis.la.gov
Kirk Talbot — talbotk@legis.la.gov
Bill Wheat — sen37@legis.la.gov
Glen Womack — sen32@legis.la.gov
Thank you for taking the time to learn, reflect, and participate in the democratic process.
If Your Loved One Was Convicted by a 10-2 Jury in Louisiana
Guide for Families
For many years, Louisiana allowed felony convictions even when the jury was not unanimous. In 2018, voters ended this practice, and in 2020 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Ramos v. Louisiana that non-unanimous jury verdicts violate the Constitution.
However, many individuals remain incarcerated today under those earlier verdicts. If your loved one was convicted by a 10-2 jury, there are important steps families can take to prepare for potential legal review or legislative relief.
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Step 1: Confirm the Jury Verdict
Before taking any action, the first and most important step is to confirm whether the conviction was decided by a non-unanimous jury.
For many years, Louisiana allowed felony convictions even when all jurors did not agree. Some people were convicted by votes such as 10-2 or 11-1, meaning one or more jurors believed there was reasonable doubt.
In 2020, the United States Supreme Court ruled in Ramos v. Louisiana that non-unanimous jury verdicts violate the Sixth Amendment right to a unanimous jury.
However, many individuals convicted before 2019 remain incarcerated under those earlier verdicts. Confirming the exact jury vote in your loved one’s case is the first step in determining whether the case may qualify for future review or legislative relief.
Tip for Families
When requesting records or speaking with attorneys, it can help to ask directly:
“Was the verdict in this case unanimous, or was it a 10-2 or 11-1 jury decision?”
Knowing this information will help families determine whether their loved one’s case falls within the group of individuals impacted by Louisiana’s former non-unanimous jury law.
Step 2: Request and Gather Court Records
Once you confirm that your loved one was convicted by a non-unanimous jury verdict, the next step is to begin gathering important court records.
These documents help families, attorneys, and advocacy organizations better understand the case and prepare if opportunities for legal review, legislative relief, or parole eligibility become available.
Having these records organized ahead of time can save valuable time if new pathways open for people affected by Louisiana’s former 10-2 jury system.
Important Records to Request
Families should begin gathering copies of the following documents whenever possible:
Core Case Documents
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Bill of Information or Grand Jury Indictment
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Jury verdict form
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Jury polling record (if one exists)
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Sentencing documents
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Commitment order
Trial Records
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Trial transcript
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Jury selection transcript (voir dire)
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Jury instructions given by the judge
Appeal and Post-Conviction Records
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Appellate court decisions
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Post-conviction filings and rulings
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Prior motions filed by attorneys
These records help confirm the details of the trial, including the jury vote, legal arguments raised, and issues discussed during appeals.
Where Families Can Request Records
Most case records can be requested from the Clerk of Court in the parish where the trial occurred.
The Clerk of Court maintains official records for criminal cases, including transcripts and court filings.
When contacting the Clerk’s office, families should try to have the following information ready:
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Full name of the incarcerated individual
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Date of birth
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Parish where the conviction occurred
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Case docket number (if known)
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Year of conviction
The clerk’s office can explain how to request copies and what fees may apply.
Tip: Start a Case Folder
As records are collected, it helps to keep everything organized in one place.
Families may wish to create a case folder or digital file that includes:
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Court documents
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Appeal decisions
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Correspondence with attorneys
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Notes about the case timeline
Having these materials organized can make it easier if an attorney, organization, or legislative review process asks for information later.
If Transcripts Are Difficult to Obtain
Trial transcripts can sometimes be difficult or expensive to obtain. If this happens, families may still be able to locate helpful information in:
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Appellate court opinions
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Court minutes from the trial
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Prior legal filings
Even partial records can help confirm important details about the case.
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Step 3: Prepare for Possible Review or Parole Consideration
While laws and review processes continue to develop regarding convictions decided by non-unanimous juries, families can begin preparing important information that may be helpful if opportunities for legal review, resentencing, or parole consideration become available.
Preparation now can make a significant difference later. When attorneys, review panels, or parole boards evaluate a case, they often look not only at the original conviction but also at the individual’s growth, rehabilitation, and support system.
Families can begin building this information now.
Evidence of Rehabilitation
Decision makers often want to understand how a person has used their time while incarcerated. Families should begin collecting documentation that reflects personal growth and positive contributions.
Examples include:
• Educational achievements (GED, college courses, certifications)
• Vocational training or job skills programs
• Work assignments and evaluations within the facility
• Program participation (anger management, substance abuse programs, mentoring programs)
• Religious or faith-based involvement
• Volunteer or mentorship roles with other incarcerated individuals
If possible, obtain copies of certificates, program completions, or recognition letters.
Institutional Record
If parole eligibility or review becomes possible, officials often examine the individual’s institutional record.
Families may want to gather or request:
• Department of Corrections Master Prison Record
• Work history while incarcerated
• Program participation history
• Disciplinary record
A positive institutional record can help demonstrate rehabilitation and readiness for reintegration.
Letters of Support
Support letters can play a powerful role in showing that an individual has a strong community waiting for them.
Families may consider gathering letters from:
• Immediate family members
• Faith leaders or spiritual advisors
• Former employers or potential employers
• Community leaders or mentors
• Teachers or counselors who know the individual or family
These letters often speak to:
• Character
• Personal growth
• Community support
• Plans for stability after release
Reentry Planning
Preparing a simple reentry plan can also be helpful. Even if a process has not yet opened, having a plan demonstrates readiness and responsibility.
Families can begin thinking about:
• Where the individual could live
• Potential employment opportunities
• Transportation plans
• Community support systems
• Counseling or mentoring programs
A thoughtful plan can help show that the individual has a path forward and a support network.
Start a Personal Story File
Many families also choose to create a personal story file that includes:
• A short biography of their loved one
• Family photos
• Letters written by children or family members
• Reflections on personal growth and transformation
While these materials may not always be required, they can sometimes help decision makers see the person beyond the case file.
Step 4: Who to Contact and How to Advocate for Your Loved One
Families of individuals convicted by non-unanimous jury verdicts often ask an important question:
“Who can we reach out to for help?”
While every case is different, there are several places families can start when seeking information, legal guidance, or advocacy support.
Building connections and sharing information can help ensure that cases affected by Louisiana’s former 10-2 jury law remain visible as lawmakers and legal organizations continue working toward solutions.
Contact Your State Legislators
State legislators play an important role in shaping laws that may affect individuals convicted under the former non-unanimous jury system.
Families may wish to contact:
• Their Louisiana State Senator
• Their Louisiana State Representative
• Members of legislative committees reviewing criminal justice legislation
Sharing your family’s story respectfully can help lawmakers better understand how these policies impact real people and communities.
When writing to legislators, families may wish to include:
• The name of their loved one
• The parish where the conviction occurred
• The year of conviction
• A brief description of how the case has affected their family
Personal stories can help policymakers see the human side of the issue.
Reach Out to Legal Advocacy Organizations
Several legal and civil rights organizations work on issues related to criminal justice reform, wrongful convictions, and constitutional rights.
These organizations sometimes review cases, provide legal assistance, or help connect families with attorneys.
Families may consider contacting:
• Innocence organizations
• Civil rights legal groups
• Criminal justice reform organizations
• Legal clinics at universities
While not every case can be accepted, many organizations appreciate receiving information that helps them understand the scope of the issue.
Contact the Clerk of Court for Case Records
If families need additional case documents or transcripts, the Clerk of Court in the parish where the trial occurred is the official source for most records.
Clerk offices can help locate:
• Court filings
• Trial transcripts
• Sentencing documents
• Appeals records
Having these records organized can make it easier when speaking with attorneys or advocacy groups.
Connect with Advocacy Networks
Families often find strength in connecting with others going through similar experiences.
Advocacy groups and community organizations may help families:
• Share information
• Stay updated on legislative developments
• Participate in awareness efforts
• Connect with legal resources
Working together can amplify voices and help bring attention to issues affecting individuals convicted under Louisiana’s former non-unanimous jury law.
Stay Informed
Legislation, court decisions, and policy discussions related to non-unanimous jury convictions continue to evolve.
Families are encouraged to stay informed by:
• Following legislative updates
• Participating in community discussions
• Monitoring developments in criminal justice reform
Staying informed allows families to respond quickly if new opportunities for review or relief become available.
If your loved one was convicted by a non-unanimous (10-2) jury in Louisiana, these printable resources can help you begin gathering important information.
Download Now
Download Now
10-2 Justice Support Hub
Individuals and families impacted by Louisiana’s non-unanimous jury convictions often face complex legal and emotional challenges.
The organizations below work to provide legal advocacy, research, and support for those seeking justice and reform.
Louisiana 10-2 Committee for Equal Justice
The Louisiana 10-2 Committee for Equal Justice works to end the lasting impact of non-unanimous jury convictions in Louisiana. Through advocacy, education, and coalition building, the committee raises awareness about the historical roots of the 10-2 system and supports efforts to restore fairness and justice for individuals and families affected by these unconstitutional verdicts.
Louisiana Parole Project
The Louisiana Parole Project supports incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals through parole preparation, advocacy, and reentry services. The organization works to help people successfully return to their communities while also advocating for fair parole policies and second chances in Louisiana.
Promise of Justice Initiative (PJI)
The Promise of Justice Initiative is a New Orleans–based legal advocacy organization that works to challenge unconstitutional convictions, excessive sentencing, and systemic injustice in Louisiana’s criminal legal system. Through litigation, advocacy, and direct legal support, PJI helps individuals and families seek fairness and accountability in the courts.
Roderick & Solange MacArthur Justice Center
The MacArthur Justice Center is a national civil rights organization that works to challenge unconstitutional practices in the criminal legal system through impact litigation and advocacy. Their work focuses on issues such as wrongful convictions, excessive sentencing, and protecting the constitutional rights of people impacted by incarceration.
VOTE
Voice of the Experienced
Voice of the Experienced (VOTE) is a Louisiana-based advocacy organization led by formerly incarcerated individuals working to reform the criminal legal system. VOTE focuses on restoring voting rights, advancing justice reform policies, and empowering impacted communities to participate in civic leadership and policy change.
Fight For Your Light
Fight For Your Light, founded by Danni Trahan, is a faith-centered support initiative that encourages individuals and families impacted by incarceration to hold onto hope, faith, and purpose. Through spiritual encouragement, community connection, and advocacy, the organization seeks to uplift families navigating the challenges of the justice system and remind them that their light and their voice still matter.
PIPES
Priorities. Intentions. Practical Exchanges
PIPES is a community-based organization focused on personal growth, mentorship, and support for individuals impacted by incarceration. Through outreach, guidance, and community engagement, the organization works to help people build positive pathways forward and strengthen support networks for returning citizens and their families.
Innocence & Justice Louisiana
Innocence & Justice Louisiana works to free innocent people who have been wrongfully convicted and to reform the systems that lead to wrongful convictions. Through legal advocacy, investigations, and policy reform, the organization fights for fairness, accountability, and justice for those impacted by wrongful imprisonment in Louisiana.
Loyola University
Advocacy Center
The Advocacy Center at Loyola University New Orleans College of Law works to advance justice through legal advocacy, policy reform, and public education. Through its programs and legal clinics, the center engages law students, faculty, and community partners to address issues affecting marginalized communities and strengthen access to justice across Louisiana.
The Juror Project
The Juror Project works to educate and empower jurors about their rights and responsibilities within the justice system. By promoting informed and thoughtful jury deliberations, the organization encourages jurors to carefully examine the evidence and uphold fairness and justice in the courtroom.
Power Coalition for Equity & Justice
The Power Coalition for Equity & Justice is a Louisiana-based organization focused on advancing civic engagement, voting rights, and equitable policies that strengthen communities across the state. Through advocacy, organizing, and community partnerships, the coalition works to promote fairness, accountability, and justice within Louisiana’s legal and civic systems.
Not My Past Ministries
Not My Past Ministries, led by advocate Telita J. Hayes, supports incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals and their families through encouragement, advocacy, and reentry guidance. The organization works to inspire second chances and empower people to move forward beyond their past.
The First 72+
The First 72+ provides critical support for individuals returning home after incarceration. The organization focuses on helping people successfully transition back into the community by offering housing support, case management, workforce development, and resources that promote stability and independence during the first days after release.
NAMI Louisiana
NAMI Louisiana provides education, advocacy, and support for individuals and families affected by mental illness. The organization offers crisis resources, peer support programs, housing assistance, and community education to help ensure people facing mental health challenges receive understanding, care, and access to the support they need.
(LMHPCO)
The Louisiana–Mississippi Hospice & Palliative Care Organization supports compassionate end-of-life care and palliative services for patients and families across Louisiana and Mississippi. Through education, advocacy, and professional collaboration, LMHPCO works to ensure individuals facing serious illness receive dignity, comfort, and supportive care.
ACLU of Louisiana
The ACLU of Louisiana works to defend and advance civil liberties and constitutional rights across the state. Through litigation, advocacy, and public education, the organization challenges unjust laws and practices within the criminal legal system while working to protect fairness, due process, and equal justice under the law.
Help Us Grow This Resource Network
This hub was created to connect families, advocates, and justice-impacted individuals with organizations working to support fairness, healing, and reform. We know there are many groups across Louisiana and beyond doing important work that may not yet be listed here. If you know of an organization, program, or resource that has helped you or others navigate this journey, we invite you to share it with us. Together, we can continue building a stronger network of support so that no family has to walk this path alone.