Justice through clemency: A life-changing pro bono project

In fall 2024, after advocating for seven years, Bianca LaCaille (Seattle) watched her client leave prison for the first time in 22 years. The client had received a grant of clemency, allowing him to accept a spot as a freshman at the University of Washington – an offer that had been extended several years earlier and was about to expire.

Bianca’s client had been convicted at age 20 and was serving a 67-year sentence. While incarcerated, he worked to make amends, taking advantage of every educational opportunity available. After years of waiting, he received a hearing. Over four hours, his lawyers demonstrated both the depth of his remorse and his growth while in prison. The clemency board unanimously recommended commutation, and the governor accepted the recommendation, enabling their client to enroll in college and begin attending classes immediately.

Below, watch a video from the Seattle Clemency Project that highlights our client’s story in his own words.