Keith Wattley, founder of UnCommon Law, is dedicated to supporting individuals serving life sentences in U.S. prisons to heal from trauma and prepare for parole. With over two million people incarcerated in the U.S., 200,000 are serving life sentences, with 40% of them being incarcerated before the age of 25.
Parole boards are responsible for determining who can safely be released on parole. Despite the supposed safeguards against bias in the parole process, disparities exist, with Black and brown candidates being less likely to be granted parole compared to their white counterparts.
In California, where UnCommon Law focuses its efforts, there are approximately 30,000-35,000 individuals serving life sentences, with a significant portion being eligible for parole. However, only a small percentage of parole hearings result in a grant, highlighting systemic issues within the parole system.
UnCommon Law recognizes that individuals who commit violent crimes often have experienced violence themselves, emphasizing the need for trauma healing and support. The organization helps individuals navigate the parole process by assisting them in communicating their personal growth and transformation to the parole board.
Following successful parole hearings, UnCommon Law continues to support individuals through its Home After Harm program, which helps them find employment and engage in peer mentorship activities to facilitate healing and reintegration into society.
Through its work, UnCommon Law has achieved a remarkable success rate, with 99% of the individuals they've assisted in being released from prison remaining out of incarceration.
Looking ahead, Keith Wattley envisions a future with fewer prisons, reduced violence within correctional facilities, and increased opportunities for restorative practices. He hopes for a higher rate of parole grants, enabling individuals to return to their communities and lead purposeful lives.
