In Part II of the discussion on Race and Collateral Consequences, we explore how the use of “moral character” clauses, like those used in state bar licensing, can prevent individuals with convictions from participating in the legal profession. We also discuss a range of restrictions to entrepreneurial ventures that people with criminal convictions face that range from limiting a person’s ability to access capital through loans to barring participation in the legal, regulated cannabis industry.

In celebration of Second Chance Month in April, NACDL hosts the first of two discussions on race and collateral consequences. Panelists discuss the long-term impacts of criminal convictions, the specific harm that collateral consequences have caused to communities of color, and what it will take to meaningfully change this system.

See the various issues on which NACDL has conducted criminal justice advocacy in D.C. Scroll to the bottom of the page to see active legislation in D.C. that NACDL is tracking. 

NACDL joined coalition of organizations in support of implementing DC’s Revised Criminal Code Act.

We write to express our opposition to efforts to obstruct the District of Columbia’s Revised Criminal Code Act, including any resolution of disapproval or budget rider. The Revised Criminal Code Act of 2022 (RCCA) is the product of 16 years of research, an expert commission, 51 public meetings, extensive public feedback, and robust negotiation. ... We urge you to oppose these attacks on the RCCA and vote against any resolution of disapproval.

We write to express our opposition to efforts to obstruct the District of Columbia’s Revised Criminal Code Act, including any resolution of disapproval or budget rider. The Revised Criminal Code Act of 2022 (RCCA) is the product of 16 years of research, an expert commission, 51 public meetings, extensive public feedback, and robust negotiation. … We urge you to oppose these attacks on the RCCA and vote against any resolution of disapproval.

NACDL supports efforts to alleviate the collateral consequences of criminal legal system involvement by eliminating barriers to attaining occupational licenses.

NACDL has actively opposed legislative efforts in D.C. to categorically prohibit certain defenses in criminal cases.

Policies and rulings on lengthy imprisonment terms in District of Columbia.

Brief Amicus Curiae of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers In Support of Petitioner-Appellant.

NACDL letter of support on Council Bill B22-0523, the "Removing Barriers to Occupational Licenses Amendment Act of 2017."

Comments to the Bureau of Prisons Office of General Counsel regarding a proposed rule to apply good-time credits earned under First Step Act provisions to individuals in BOP custody with convictions under the D.C. Code.

NACDL President Nina J. Ginsberg's written statement to the Washington, D.C. City Council Judiciary and Public Safety Committee regarding proposed legislation to prohibit "panic" defenses in criminal cases.

Information on the policy and history of recording custodial interrogations in the District of Columbia.

Attorney-client communications federal caselaw and state-specific anecdotal data in District of Columbia