Our Mission
The Second Look Project is working to end extreme sentences and mass incarceration in Washington, D.C. We advance justice and second chances through direct legal representation, advocacy, and holistic reentry support for people sentenced to lengthy prison terms as children or emerging adults. Our intensive, personalized work spans 18–24 months per client, creating pathways home and driving systemic change.
Our Approach
Our work falls into three main categories: (1) direct representation of individuals seeking sentence reductions, the training, consultation and litigation support to pro bono and CJA attorneys handling sentence reduction cases, (2) Systemic Advocacy , and 3) reentry support.
Direct Representation
Providing high-quality legal representation to incarcerated individuals seeking sentence reduce or release of extreme sentences upon a showing of rehabilitation and redemption. We also train and consult with pro bro and court appointed attorneys handling sentence reduction cases.
Advocacy
To reduce and eliminate extreme sentences as punishment and advocate for practices that consider rehabilitation, age, brain science, and pathways to second chances. Advocate for fair treatment and conditions for DC residents serving extreme sentences.
Reentry Support
Offering holistic reentry support to ensure stability and success for clients returning home after decades of incarceration.
Our Impact
35 individuals released through SLP legal representation
A total ~1,900 years saved from serving extreme sentences
Advocated for the expansion of the Second Look Act in DC
Supported the release of 50 clients through our pro bono partnerships and training program
less than 4% recidivism rate among SLP clients
Over 90% of SLP clients post-release are employed
Our Supporters
Our work is made possible by the generous support of the following organizations, as well as that of our many individual donors.
