What:

Grassroots Leadership, the Foundation for the Austin Sanctuary Network, VOCAL Texas, the Austin Area Urban League, Advocates for Social Justice Reform, Equity Action and others, in collaboration with concerned Central Texas residents, are calling for immediate action from Travis County officials regarding the implementation of Counsel At First Appearance (CAFA) for all detainees in the Travis County Jail.

Who:

The lived experience of ESL, being unhoused, being formerly incarcerated, being historically marginalized, and/or being a parent, all bring a unique barrier when trying to successfully exit the criminal justice system.

Why:

The lack of adequate legal representation at magistration, the first court appearance after arrest, is a critical issue affecting thousands of individuals in Travis County each year. This failure to provide legal representation at the first appearance violates constitutional rights.