The Light of Justice Program

The Light of Justice Program was founded with the mission to assist incarcerated people to overcome barriers that would prevent judges from reviewing the merits of their cases on appeal and post-conviction.

Light of Justice works closely with incarcerated Counsel-Substitutes inside Department of Corrections facilities across the state of Louisiana to secure records and transcripts, as well as updated case law, legislation and legal materials that they do not have access to. Light of Justice also offers incarcerated people education on procedural rules and changes to the law, and assists Counsel-Substitutes with monitoring their court deadlines and the outcomes of their direct appeals.

The Light of Justice Program is currently working to expand into the parish jails. Light of Justice staff also conduct trainings and speak at conferences to educate lawyers and judges about client-centered representation and the effects of procedural hurdles that incarcerated people face when accessing the courts. Additionally, Light of Justice staff performs and publishes research to educate the public on access to the courts.

The Light of Justice Program is a core program of JSRI and contributes to JSRI’s mission: Rooted in faith that promotes justice, the Jesuit Social Research Institute empowers communities through service, research, education, and advocacy to confront the systemic issues of poverty and racial inequality.  

Click here to make an online donation to The Light of Justice Program, or click here to download a printable giving form.