Prior research has shown that between 62% and 87% of incarcerated adult males have experienced traumatic events at some point in their lifetime, and the rate is even higher for women and those who identify as transgender. Unfortunately, few opportunities currently exist in prison for individuals to meaningfully address the role that trauma has played in their life — despite the fact that a person’s ability to understand and recover from trauma is a primary focus of California’s discretionary parole process.
Our work combines trauma-informed, healing-centered mental health and legal counseling to ultimately work to unpack the underlying issues that contributed to a person’s pathway to crime. Supported by our curriculum, UnCommon Law’s trauma-trained attorneys and social workers partner with clients to help them improve self-awareness, change their self-narrative, and assume accountability for their past actions — and their path forward. We work with clients for at least six months prior to their parole board hearing, and often work with clients for several years to provide the support they need on their journey to healing and accountability.
Each client’s trauma-informed, healing centered plan is unique, and can include any combination of advocates - attorney, social worker, therapist, law student, intern or other counselors.
Our outcomes
Over 60% of UnCommon Law’s clients achieve parole suitability - more than triple the state average.
Our clients develop critical skills that serve them both inside and outside of prison, regardless of parole achievement. These include heightened communication skills, emotional resilience and healthy coping habits, self-management and mentoring skills.