Clinic Gains Presidential Clemency for Client

The Neighborhood Law and Policy Clinic won clemency for its client Rudolph Norris, who was sentenced to 30 years in prison in 1993 for a drug offense. President Barack Obama commuted Mr. Norris' sentence after he served more than 20 years. "It was a privilege and honor to assist Mr. Norris in securing clemency from the President," said Associate Professor of Clinical Law and Clinic Director Jessica K. Steinberg. "His case highlights the urgent need for executive review of unduly harsh sentences for low-level drug offenders, particularly for individuals like him who have demonstrated true rehabilitation while incarcerated."