2025 Lifer School

Saturday, February 1 | 9:00 am PST | Oakland, CA

Join us for our annual Lifer School—an all-day educational symposium for advocates and community members who are supporting people navigating the parole process in California.

At Lifer School, you'll hear from experts with both lived and professional experience in the California parole system. Our workshops will cover everything from an overview of the parole process, to how to support a loved one in it, to ways to get involved in parole-related policy efforts. You'll gain practical tips for preparing for parole hearings and collaborating effectively with BPH attorneys—all within a trauma-informed and healing-focused framework. This year, we are also adding a track specifically for attorneys who want to learn more about the specifics of representing clients and habeas petitions. 

In addition to workshops, you'll have the chance to connect with several organizations tabling their resources, including the Transitions Clinic Network, Ella Baker Center, Ahimsa Collective, Homies for Empowerment, and Project Avery. This is your opportunity to build connections, discover valuable resources, and strengthen your advocacy network.

Lifer School will run all day, from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm. Lunch is provided!

If you are formerly incarcerated and on parole and need any assistance in gaining permission from your Parole Office to attend the event, please contact info@uncommonlaw.org for assistance.

Register today

Free and donation ticket options are available.

Saturday, February 1, 9:00 am - 4:30 pm | MetWest High School - Dolores Huerta Campus

9:00 am - Arrival and Registration

9:15 am - Welcome

9:45 am - Introduction to the Parole Process

11:00 am - Break

11:15 am - Mock Hearing Demonstration

12:15 pm - Lunch

1:00 pm - Workshop Session #1

2:00 pm - Break

2:15 pm - Workshop Session #2

3:15 pm - Break

3:30 pm - Closing Panel with former clients and Q&A session

4:30 - Event ends