Skip to footer TEXAS DEFENDER SERVICE Mitigation Project Death penalty trials consist of two phases: a trial phase during which the jury rules on whether the defendant is or is not guilty, and the penalty phase during which the jury determines whether the defendant should be sentenced to death or life without parole. In this second proceeding, evidence regarding the defendant’s background including mental health, medical history, and family background is critical to the jury’s determination. Yet, with hundreds of capital murder cases pending at any time, Texas experiences a constant shortage of qualified mitigation specialists to investigate these grounds for mercy. In 2017, TDS launched its mitigation project to work with trial teams across the state and to assist in select appellate cases. In the short time since its inception, the unit has grown from one staff mitigation specialist to an army of seven including the director. The mitigation team works tirelessly on behalf of those facing death sentences and those sentenced to death. We are dedicated to telling the unique and compelling stories of those facing the death penalty. This narrative helps decision-makers understand our clients through a different lens, one that takes the entirety of the person into account. It is our steadfast belief that the combination of individual casework and a commitment to furthering the field of mitigation through training and consultation will result in a more fair and just criminal justice system for those facing Texas harshest punishment Footer COPYRIGHT 2019 - 2021 TEXAS DEFENDER SERVICES, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Skip to footer TEXAS DEFENDER SERVICE Reports Lethally Deficient Direct Appeals in Texas Death Penalty Cases Texas' system of providing direct appeal representation in death penalty cases is in dire need of reform. This report documents its weaknesses. Learn More Towards More Transparent Justice The Michael Morton Act's First Year A joint report by TDS and Texas Appleseed that examines open file discovery practices in Texas. Learn More Minimizing Risk A Blueprint for Death Penalty Reform in Texas Learn More Lethal Indifference The fatal combination of incompetent attorneys and unaccountable courts in Texas death penalty appeals Learn More State of Denial Texas Justice and the Death Penalty Learn More Footer COPYRIGHT 2019 - 2021 TEXAS DEFENDER SERVICES, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.