The Deason Center's communications team is ready to connect you with national experts who can provide insight and analysis about criminal law, public defense, criminal justice policy, and more.
The legislation says that any person incarcerated at the time of their initial court appearance is presumed indigent, ensuring that they will have counsel to represent them when they first appear in court.
April 30, 2025
Report from SMU’s Deason Center details research-based solutions for Kansas to protect constitutional rights.
February 27, 2025
Nationally recognized criminal justice policy experts join SMU’s Deason Center, working to end longstanding injustices in the early stages of the criminal justice system.
December 11, 2024
U.S. Department of Justice grant will fund the Deason Center’s study of five jurisdictions that recently implemented new public defense practices
June 10, 2024
Better information, reduced jail time before criminal charges are filed should reduce impact on families’ health, housing, stability
July 20, 2023
The Deason Criminal Justice Reform Center at SMU Dedman School of Law continues to be among the most sought-after public defense research centers in the United States.
June 26, 2023