DOwn by law

Empowering communities through accessible education.

Our mission

Is to empower individuals and communities through accessible education about the court system and advocacy for prison reform, creating a more just and equitable society.

We strive to amplify the voices of those who have been counted out and ensure that everyone has the knowledge and resources needed to navigate the complexities of the legal system, free from distraction and bias.

Our team includes formerly incarcerated individuals, legal professionals, justice impacted individuals and community organizers with deep ties to the communities we serve. This diverse expertise ensures our programming remains relevant, accessible, and impactful.

PATHWAYS TO JUSTICE

Our core programming addresses the real needs of our communities through:

Justice Unlocked - Quarterly learning workshops covering different aspects of the justice system, from initial arrest procedures to courtroom protocols and post-release resources.
Restoration Circle - Facilitated peer support network groups where formerly incarcerated individuals mentor others navigating reentry challenges
Verdict View - Ongoing judicial accountability project to hold judges accountable through grading criteria that produces report cards
System Decoded; Renewal Project - Specialized youth training about the court system for 16-25 year-olds.

our team

Formerly incarcerated individuals, legal professionals, justice impacted individuals and community organizers with deep ties to the communities we serve.

This diverse expertise ensures our programming remains relevant, accessible, and impactful.