empowering communities through accessible education

DOwn by law

ABOUT US.

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.

We're not just here to explain court procedures—we're here because people are out there trying to make sense of a complicated system with very little support. 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.

Creating Pathways to Justice

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

Know Your Rights Workshops (Justice Unlocked) - Monthly sessions covering different aspects of the justice system, from initial arrest procedures to courtroom protocols and post-release resources
Peer Support Network (Restoration Circle) - Facilitated groups where formerly incarcerated individuals mentor others navigating reentry challenges
Judicial Accountability (Verdict View) - Ongoing project to hold judges accountable through grading criteria that produces report cards
Youth Programs - Specialized training for 16-25 year-olds and literary programming within juvenile facilities