AMICUS

AMICUS is an international human rights organization dedicated to promoting fairness, dignity, and justice within the criminal legal system. The organization was established in 1992 after concerns were raised about the wrongful execution of Andrew Lee Jones in Louisiana. His case drew attention to the profound consequences that can arise when individuals facing the death penalty do not receive adequate legal support. Questions surrounding the handling of evidence, the quality of legal representation, and the treatment of vulnerable defendants highlighted broader issues within the administration of capital punishment. In response, AMICUS was created to help ensure that those facing the most severe criminal sanctions have access to thorough legal assistance and independent case review. AMICUS has developed into a global network of lawyers, academics, students, and volunteers committed to protecting the rights of individuals facing the death penalty. Through partnerships with legal professionals and law firms around the world, the organization supports casework, legal research, and investigations that help identify potential miscarriages of justice. Beyond individual cases, AMICUS seeks to encourage informed discussion about human rights, due process, and the ethical implications of capital punishment.
 

Our university AMICUS project is divided into two key teams: the Research Team and the Campaign Team. Both play an essential role in advancing the organization's mission and raising awareness of the realities of capital punishment.
 

The Research Team consists of one Research Lead and several Research Members. Working closely with AMICUS affiliate organizations, researchers review real death penalty case files to identify legal discrepancies, procedural errors, evidentiary concerns, and instances of unfair or inadequate representation. Their work contributes directly to ongoing case reviews and helps ensure that individuals facing the death penalty receive the scrutiny and support they deserve. The Campaign Team consists of one Campaign Lead and multiple Campaign Members. This team is responsible for educating the public about the issues surrounding capital punishment through social media campaigns, campus outreach, and community advocacy initiatives. The Campaign Team organizes and hosts fundraising events not only to generate financial support for AMICUS but also help build a broader understanding of the importance of fair legal representation and the protection of human rights.​

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Any questions or inquires can be directed to the Co-Directors: Tiffany Duhault and Oyin Akintunde.​​