Guidelines and Standards for Capital Representation
Information and standards about the appointment and performance of defense counsel in capital cases, including the 1989 and 2003 ABA Guidelines, as well as analysis of Bobby v. Van Hook.
Death Penalty Representation Project
The Death Penalty Representation Project is the Association’s expert on issues related to the defense effort in death penalty cases. Since 1986 its singular focus has been to improve the quality and availability of legal representation for persons facing possible death sentences.
Highlights
Learn from Volunteers!
Listen to recorded testimonials from several of our most experienced volunteer attorneys! Each recording addresses a different topic or question of interest to new volunteers.
Success Stories
Thousands of volunteer attorneys have donated their time, skills, and resources to provide life-changing assistance to prisoners on death row. Every case placed with pro bono counsel is a victory for fairness and due process.
Public Interest Membership
ABA membership has new benefits and discounted rates for Public Interest Lawyers. Benefits include access to professional networks, valuable resources, free online CLE and much more!
Project News & Updates
Spring 2020 Newsletter
Read our Spring 2020 Newsletter, which includes reviews of Supreme Court decisions, death penalty news, and Project updates!
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New Clemency Resource Website Launched!
The Project has launched a new website for the public and practitioners devoted to capital clemency, as part of its joint Clemency Initiative. Visit our Initiative page to learn more!
Recent Activities
Donate to the Project
Consider showing your support for our work by making a tax-deductible financial contribution to the Death Penalty Representation Project. Your assistance is essential to the Project’s success and to the lives of the men and women on death row.
Learn More About Our Work
Volunteer & Client Testimonials
The Death Penalty Representation Project has worked for 30 years to improve the quality of and access to counsel for individuals facing the death penalty. This short video about our work features just a few of our pro bono lawyers and their clients.
Learn - Hear More
Looking for legal help?
If you are looking for legal assistance on a death penalty case, click here to see if you meet the Project's criteria. You can also find a list of state and national organizations that may be able to help.
Contact Us
Submit this form to get in touch with Project staff.