Second Look Project

The Second Look Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing advocacy and legal support for individuals seeking relief from extreme sentences in the District of Columbia. It focuses on assisting those eligible for sentence reductions under D.C.’s Incarceration Reduction Amendment Act (“IRAA”) and Compassionate Release laws.

Mission and Activities

The organization provides direct representation to individuals seeking relief, as well as institutional advocacy, training, and litigation support for court-appointed and pro bono attorneys handling these cases. Its mission aligns with efforts to address mass incarceration by offering a "second look" at sentences, allowing for potential reductions in prison time for those who have shown rehabilitation or are otherwise deserving of reconsideration.

Funding and Structure

The Second Look Project was established with funding from the Vital Projects Fund and receives additional support from grants, including those from the District of Columbia Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants and Arnold Ventures. As a nonprofit, donations to the organization are tax-deductible.

Legal Focus

The organization operates within the legal framework of crime and legal-related services, categorized under the National Taxonomy of Exempt Entities (NTEE) classification for legal services. Its activities aim to equip individuals and legal teams with the necessary tools and support to navigate sentence review processes effectively.

Cooperation and Impact

While the Second Look Project is focused on the District of Columbia, its efforts contribute to broader national discussions on second look laws and sentence reform. These movements aim to reduce mass incarceration by facilitating more just and rehabilitative sentencing practices.