ABOUT
FOUNDER
National Appellate Clinic
National Appellate Clinic is not just another legal aid, it’s a place where we believe everyone has the right to a fair trial and access to justice. Our founder, Omar Rashad Pouncy, who is also known as “O”, has been in your shoes before. At only 18, Omar was charged with two separate cases, had to represent himself at two trials, was convicted, and sentenced to 48-66 years in prison, for a total of 87-141 years in prison. Omar’s experience led him to start this clinic in hopes of helping others. We understand that facing legal issues can be overwhelming and we are here to provide assistance and guidance, no matter how difficult your case may seem.
The Power of Appeals: Our Expertise
Omar's perseverance paid off when he successfully challenged his conviction in Michigan. Initially, he convinced the Court of Appeals to overturn a 39 to 75-year sentence from a bench trial. Although granted a new trial, the case was later dismissed by the prosecutor's office. Omar's legal battle continued, and he faced a 48 to 66-year sentence from a jury trial.
Taking his fight to the federal level, Omar filed a habeas corpus petition, navigating complex legal procedures against the Michigan Attorney General. In a remarkable turn, Omar personally argued his case in federal court, leading to the overturning of the jury trial sentence in the case of Pouncy v. Palmer (165 F. Supp. 3d 615, E.D. Mich 2016). The federal judge not only commended Omar's legal acumen but praised his "mastery of complex issues of habeas procedure and constitutional law" in a published opinion (168 F. Supp. 3d 954, 968 n. 12, E.D. Mich 2016).
Despite facing opposition from the state court, local prosecutor, and the Michigan Attorney General's Office, Omar defied expectations and walked out of prison on March 28, 2016. Inspired by the injustice he experienced, Omar founded NAC to provide quality legal services to those deprived of their constitutional and statutory rights. In his pursuit of justice, Omar embodies the spirit of Harriet Tubman, working to free others from wrongful convictions.
*Source: West Ladwet interview with Omar (with David L. Moffitt) on March 28, 2016, outside the federal courthouse immediately after his release.*
