Because Freedom Can't Protect Itself

Criminal Justice & Due Process

[L]awyers in criminal courts are necessities, not luxuries. The right of one charged with crime to counsel may not be deemed fundamental and essential to fair trials in some countries, but it is in ours.

— Justice Hugo Black, Gideon v. Wainwright

The rights guaranteed to the accused, defendants, offenders and prisoners are fundamental political rights that protect all Americans from governmental abuse of power. These rights include the guarantee against unreasonable search and seizure, the right to reasonable bail, the right to due process of law and the right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment. They are indispensable to a free society.

Legal Cases

• State v. Stephens
• Gomez v. Spaulding

press releases

July 11, 2001   Court Slams Prison Officials for Ethics Violations and Retaliation Against Inmates