Moments in History: Jenner & Block's 100-Year Story
Firm's Role In Capital Punishment
The firm played a significant role in the state of Illinois’ journey toward abolishing capital punishment. On this week in 2003, then-Governor George Ryan issued clemency to approximately 160 inmates on the state’s Death Row, commuting their sentences to life in prison without parole. Read more...
A History of Pro Bono and Public Service: 2000s
Grutter v. Bollinger and Gratz v. BollingerJenner & Block took an active role in the national debate in two landmark cases that involved the University of Michigan’s affirmative action admission policies. The Court relied on an amicus brief filed by a Jenner & Block team led by Partner David W. DeBruin on behalf of 65 major companies in upholding the admissions program at the University of Michigan Law School.
A History of Pro Bono and Public Service: 2000s
Lawrence v. Texas
Jenner & Block served as co-lead counsel with Lambda Legal Defense & Education Fund in a civil rights decision that overturned a Texas anti-sodomy law. Partner Paul Smith argued the case before the US Supreme Court. The Court’s decision was widely considered to be the most important gay rights decision in a generation.
A History of Pro Bono and Public Service: 2000s
Wiggins v. SmithPartner Donald B. Verrilli, Jr. convinced the United States Supreme Court to find, for only the second time in 20 years, that a death row inmate received ineffective assistance of counsel.
A History of Pro Bono and Public Service: 2000s
Partner Robert L. Byman represented Patrick Sykes, the defendant in the infamous “Girl X” case. The girl, who becomes known as Girl X, was raped and beaten in a Cabrini-Green high rise.
A History of Pro Bono and Public Service: 2000s
Legal Status of Guantanamo Bay PrisonersJenner & Block Partners Jeff C. Colman and Thomas P. Sullivan led a team of lawyers who continue to be significantly involved in litigation and national debate surrounding the legal status of the prisoners being held at the U.S. Naval Base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
