The Center for Death Penalty Litigation is a North Carolina nonprofit law firm representing people facing the death penalty and other extreme sentences. We expose and confront racism within the criminal punishment system. Through strategic litigation, education, training, and policy reform, we strive to create a more humane and equitable society. Sign up for our newsletters, connect with us on Linked In, and follow us on Instagram (@centerfordeathpenaltylit) to stay up to date on what’s happening!
What’s New
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Strengthening criminal defense through community: CDPL’s Interns of Color program
At CDPL, we believe a diverse criminal defense bar is key to providing excellent representation for our clients. However, given a legacy of racism in the criminal legal system, it takes commitment and creativity to build a multi-racial attorney pool. That’s why CDPL created the Interns of Color program. This summer, for the third year in a row, CDPL will host a series of special events to build community and offer support to interns of color at criminal defense and advocacy organizations in North Carolina.
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An update on our work: How CDPL is expanding its impact
Over the past few years, CDPL has been quietly growing its work. Now, we want to explain why and how we’ve expanded our footprint in criminal defense, both in our backyard of Durham and across the state.
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After commutation, new life for my client
A new story in the prison publication Nash News interviews CDPL client Rico Fowler, whose death sentence was commuted to life in 2024, about his efforts to study and be of service in prison. “Whatever I do now is not just for me, it is for my brothers.”
Support our Work
Help us provide the best possible representation to people facing execution and educate the public about the injustice and racist roots of the death penalty. Donate here. Or sign up here to get updates about our work.
Join the Movement
CDPL is a member of the NC Coalition for Alternatives to the Death Penalty. If you want to be a part of the grassroots movement to end the NC death penalty, please visit their website to learn and get involved.
Intern or Volunteer
Do you want to learn about capital defense while working alongside a dedicated staff? We will open applications for Fall 2026 externships early 2026!