Formerly Incarcerated Community Member's Law School Dream

In June 1996, 21 year-old Michael Braham began serving a prison sentence in Connecticut. Like most young people, he had no understanding of the legal processes that he was now facing, and the system he was now in.

Throughout his incarceration, his Constitutional rights were violated. Each and every time, he was forced to represent himself in court, successfully teaching himself the law. Michael fought his own cases and then taught the skills he learned to others.

In 2021, Michael was released after 25 years of incarceration.

With two college degrees he earned while inside, and a mission for the outside world.

While working hard as a paralegal for Attorney Alex Taubes, Michael has never forgotten the people still behind those prison walls that he met throughout his incarceration. He never forgot his experiences having to represent himself, and what he and others went through and witnessed, within Connecticut’s prison system.

Through Michael and Attorney Taubes' efforts, dozens of other individuals who were incarcerated have also received a second chance. Together, they have taken over 1,000 years off prison sentences, leading to the release of nearly 100 people.

It’s been a long road, filled with hard work, but Michael has reached a major milestone on his journey: after getting accepted into UConn Law School, Michael Braham is set to begin his first semester later this month.

Michael’s story is inspiring, and powerful. As a community, we have an extraordinary opportunity to support someone harnessing their experiences to litigate alongside those most directly impacted by poverty, policing, and the prison system here in Connecticut.

Any amount you can contribute would be a HUGE help and go a long way to easing the burden Michael is now facing to pay for his first year of law school.

Please share with your family, friends, and network!