I was raised a low income immigrant, dropped out of highschool, and now in my 30s just finished my first year of law school. It's been quite the journey, even getting my bachelors was difficult, but I got through it. Law School is difficult, but doable, especially when you have the drive and work ethic. This was refreshing to watch, and I hope many people understand the biggest obstacle one can face is the one you place on yourself.
This is a wonderful and beautiful concept. We can do it. Let's do something positive now!Again and again! Continue and never ever stop!!! Promise, you will never ever stop.
More power to you! I had same life experiences . Was getting ready to move on to law school when, what my doctor refers to " life happens". I fell ill and couldn't mo e foward with my dreams. I love hearing stories like yours! Love your attitude !!! I still try to keep a positive attitude no matter how my health behaves. Makes life better. Doesn't it? Bless you!!!
I pled guilty to a crime I did not commit and 25 years later i still wish I never did, it changed my life so drastically back in my twenties. I was misinformed by my Public Defender of what the full benefit would be to fight the charge, and was frightened into believing that I could be doing 7 1/2 to 15 if I didn't. I was so mislead and misrepresented, I didn't fully understand the law then and neither did my parents. We trusted the system and what the 'system' said would happen....all so the court and the Public Pretender could move onto their next case to close as fast as possible.
One of my sons was charged into petty Juvenile court. His attorney was given the file just before the hearing. It was pretty disgusting. She had never seen my son or talked to him. The right to council is an ideal without funding.
I saw a public pretender two minutes before I saw the judge. They asked me if I understood. I said no. The pretender told the judge that I did. Got 26 years I had admitted to being charged with a felony. Denied housing jobs etc. All those years later I found out I had only been charged with a midtomrnor.
@@juditrotter5176My son and grandson both have gone through that concerning public defenders! Neither charged with serious offenses( also years apart) non violent. My son spent 4 months before getting to court. My grandson spent 14 months just waiting for a hearing! ( His problem was drugs and kept contacting his girlfriend) Thank goodness he is clean now and is in a halfway home, working and recently got saved. He has 3 more months and then transitions to independent living and probation. He's allowed off on his own one day a week and spends that day with his daughter. His other daughter is away at college but calls her a couple times a week.
I think perhaps you are singling out the public defender unfairly. Obviously, we do not know the facts of your case. IMO most public defenders are likely doing their best in a broken system. That was the message presented here and it is rather well known for those informed on this topic. FRONTLINE'S `The Plea` delves into this as well. PBS and the NYT have also covered it for many years. Louisiana's (and other states) system is broken primarily because the taxpayers refuse to fund the system sufficiently. There are good reasons Louisiana, Mississippi, and Arkansas routinely rank at the bottom of all US states and have for many decades. When one political party's mantra is "less taxes" regardless of the effective efficiency of the government's purpose is it any wonder that the government does not function well? You can't have shiny things if you are unwilling to pay for them. "You get the democracy you deserve"- most Venezuelans these days, for the last 20 years. Substitute "democracy" for government efficiency. Lastly: there are no controls on who is awarded a public defender. No one that requests one has to submit and have vetted their net worth. Yes, it is a right to have a public defender "if you cannot afford one" That last part is not enforced, TMK.
As a lawyer myself, this is just great! Before becoming a lawyer, i worked with drug dependents in their rehabilitation from illicit (illegal) drug use. i strongly believe in the reformation of persons who have broken the law; most of these people are redeemable and can realize their full potential. it takes caring, empathetic persons & professionals who can provide support and means for changing for good those who were convicted criminals (like in this 60 Minutes episode), to effect redemption & personal success for those who erred in their ways.
Kudos to Seth Waxman for stepping up and becoming a mentor to a talented inmate by insisting upon working with Shawn Hopwood's assistance to argue the case in front of the Supreme Court instead of taking it over and away from him.
@@JanitorIsBack Wow, I just looked this up. A shame if proven true. A tarnished reputation if false. A marriage, family, and career fractured either way.
NOBODY in the United States can stop ANYONE from going to Law School !! They might be able to stop you from entering the BAR. But nobody can stop you from going to school !! This guy is a PERFECT example of "Rehabilitation" !! Thumbs Up video !
@@WILMA_Google his name. That comment made me look and indeed his domestic charges are serious. It’s been ongoing. Per Reuters, when the officers went to his residence, he said his wife was out of town. The truth was he had her locked in the basement with a broken finger and tooth.
@@JanitorIsBack how sad. i wondered why his eyelashes were missing. knowing that stress can cause one 2 pluck out eyebrows and lashes. I guess now I know the possible source of the stress.
Unbelievable. I am so inspired but this man and all his pupils. The prisoners, these pupils doing the good work, spreading HOPE. Not only supporting these disadvantaged citizens who became prisoners but indeed spreading HOPE to all who hold justice as most dear. I am transformed by this report. God Bless Mr. Justice Defender. I have had HOPE restored. Is there any greater hunger than that for justice in every and all forms? I think not. I think not. Thank you for uplifting me. This is the best 60 Minutes I have seen in all the 40+ years I have watched, both in the US and 60 Minutes Australia. Figures Anderson Cooper is involved. That man is a rock star.
It is a great story I agree. Unfortunately, Shawn was arrested in September 2023 for domestic assault. Felony charges were filed in August of this year. He has not been teaching since his 2023 arrest. Sad outcome for this man after all
@ oh no. Of course I didn’t want to know. Unfortunately yes, I prefer the truth. What a shame. Thank you for the update. I appreciate it, no matter the disappointment in my newest rise above story, the truth is the truth.
Personally, 60 Minutes has been available for the entire 66 years that have made up my life...I have nothing but respect for this show... the peterman...
On the contrary, here is a story that teaches the value of taking charge of your own destiny, seizing opportunities as they present themselves, striving to make yourself a little bit better each day, and giving it your all when you take on something. Stop asking other people to change for you, be the change that you want to see.
Thank you 60 minutes for highlighting the cruel unfairness of our system. We’ve decided that certain people are worthy to change their life around, but others cannot.
Absolutely one of the best 60 Minutes episodes I have yet seen! This gives me hope that some day, justice may indeed be served.👍👍👍 The segment on New Orleans was particularly good. The "litigation funding" segment was also most ... enlightening.
Many states allow personal injury clients to enter into a contingency agreement rather than an hourly billing fee agreement. This was a stellar episode, thank you.
As of August 2024 , Shon new case against him for Domestic Violence assulting his wife has gone mute. His wife drop charged however, the DA is pursuing Assault Charges against Shon. Shon according to other media accounts say, Shon has a history of violence, narricism and anger management issues. Shon needs years of therapy and Anger Management Counseling to help him deal with his anger issues. His story was amazing. However, his violence issues are now tarnishing his amazing redemption story. I have lost all respect for a man ( every man )who assaults women.
Hard to believe Anderson? I did nothing the DA had no evidence and no witnesses and Public Defender said if I didn’t plead guilty then I’d be in jail for years or even life. My Public Defender and Attorney said they knew I didn’t do any of what was alleged and charged and they knew the DA had no evidence but they said they couldn’t help me. They never came to see me or answer my calls. The only honest thing they said was, “I don’t have the time to help you, the DA and I decided your plea, if you take it you can get out of jail, if you don’t you will remain in jail for years and possible decades. I lost my Nursing license (and I lived Nursing and would have done it for free) and I lost my daughters who were told multiple lies from my Attorney because he couldn’t convince me to plead guilty. When I kept hearing the lies and how they were affecting my daughters, I decided to plead guilty to charges I never ever did and I wasn’t allowed to choose my plea, my Attorney and the DA did. That was seven years ago. BTW, the Public Defenders never had time to talk to me or look into my case. They showed up in court and shockingly agreed with DA lies in court and lied saying that I told them things I didn’t tell them. The judge wouldn’t let me speak. What would you do Anderson if you were told you’d sit in jail for years without end in sight unless you plead guilty or no contest? And no Advocate to boot…actually your “Advocate” spoke more to ADA about your case and was anything but an Advocate
This is mind blowing. I wish my son could attend his classes. Truly inspiring. A brilliant mind just probably bored that his previous education could not keep up with his mind. The work of Justice Defenders and public defenders is truly inspiring. The law is fascinatingly beautiful, something I wished I pursued. I could imagine Anderson Cooper to be a passionate lawyer.
No, it does not. What it does show is one may be able to however at times there may be forces too great to overcome. Failure to achieve may be beyond one's control. It is a mistake to extrapolate anecdotal evidence to support gross hyperbole.
@Mark-gg6iy oh my God everybody else besides you understood im sure what I was talking about talking . I don't need to get technical if you're able to achieve it and you really want to you will do it that's the point why do I have to break down what I mean ??? of course if a man has no legs he can't get up and walk no matter how much he wants to I don't have to explain this to my nephews
9:27 "Prison guards tell you every day that you're worthless." It's just sad how the U.S. prison system operates. As if losing your freedom wasn't punishment enough. No, we have to denigrade you on top of it. Maybe treating inmates like human beings might actually increase their chances of rehabilitation? Many countries have successfully tried it, maybe it's worth a shot?
⏱️ Timestamps by TimeSkip ⏱️ 00:00:00 - Introduction to Jailhouse Lawyers 00:01:54 - Shan's Early Life and Choices 00:03:35 - The Bank Robberies Explained 00:05:07 - Discovering the Law in Prison 00:06:28 - First Steps in Legal Advocacy 00:07:47 - The Supreme Court Grants a Case 00:09:37 - Winning Cases from Prison 00:12:28 - Teaching at Georgetown Law 00:13:31 - Advocacy for Criminal Justice Reform 00:14:33 - Alexander McLean's Mission 00:17:35 - Training Inmates as Paralegals 00:18:39 - Alexander McLean's Background 00:19:35 - Transforming Lives Through Education 00:20:42 - Transforming Lives Through Law 00:22:11 - Moot Court Experience 00:23:45 - Graduation Ceremony Highlights 00:25:12 - Justice Defenders Impact 00:27:43 - Challenges in Public Defense 00:29:22 - Overworked Public Defenders 00:32:06 - Donald Gamble's Case 00:39:22 - Consequences of Plea Deals 00:41:01 - Understanding Litigation Funding 00:42:04 - Craig Underwood's Legal Battle 00:45:01 - Berford Capital's Role in Litigation 00:47:10 - Ethics and Regulation in Litigation Funding 00:53:38 - Impact of Litigation Funding on Justice
It's because of how his brain works, it connects things in a certain way and like he said, "its like a puzzle" so its like a game for his brain. Thats cool
You have to have a JD degree and have passed the state's bar exam just to even apply. You want licensed attorneys as the public defenders. The fact is most states fund/pay prosecutors many times more than they fund/pay public defenders. There should be more balance there, because as the Tulane law professor pointed out this has ramifications beyond just the defendant and his or her life. When you can make more as a bartender than you can as a public defender in some places, there is one problem. And the other is the crushing caseload most have. They don't need a "fast track", they need to pay more and fund the public defender agencies more so they can hire additional attorneys and paralegals and support staff... and a student loan forgiveness program for those willing to go to the most underserved places for a certain amount of time could also help, because law school is expensive, and then studying for and passing the bar is additionally expensive.
Absolutely wonderful presentation. It proves that if just given the opportunity ( which is getting so much harder in this country if being poor, much less incarcerated ) , there really are more people who have , or may develop later in life , the desire and discipline to use their inherent abilities to be wonderful contributors to all of society if only given the opportunity. We should never foreclose or fail to provide the opportunities , as is happening more and more in the U.S. , to our citizens when they at whatever stage of life demonstrate the desire and dedication to be hardworking contributing members of this country.
I have taught educational classes to prison inmates.I am often surprised by how intelligent and scholastically gifted prison inmates are, if given the opportunity to receive an education. So common is it, I am no longer shocked by the amount of Intelligence some prisoners have.
Do we have a branch of JUSTISE DEFENDERS here in America? If not, we sure could use one, especially in the southern states. Also, private management of our prison systems is a terrible idea as it creates endless routes for corporate corruption, and makes it easy for those same corporations to hide it.
There's a basic ignorance among people, and especially other attorneys and doctors especially. There are individuals that have all sorts of education and documentation that buy it, or are not really that smart. We are all given gifts, talents, skills and abilities as souls, and it is up to us to either use it or let it go. Some abuse what they've what they are given for position, money, and fame rather than for good. God bless this young man in his life.
Sometimes you need the right environment, circumstances, and motivation to see just how good you can become at something. He probably never would have entertained the thought of going into a career in law were it not for first being a convicted criminal, and spending all that time in prison. I'm glad it worked out for him in the end. And that so many people saw and were willing to support him in the next stage of his life.
Oh, how i love stories like this! Turning ones life around - no doubt, Divine intervention played a part ( my take). What a lesson to take away from this story and never let the overeducated think you can't because you really can.
This is why you can’t count felons out. I personally think if they haven’t been convicted of a violent crime, they should be able to work any job after 10 years without any offenses.
What an amazing story I'm so impressed and happy for this young man as well as the older ones who gave him the opportunity I truly gives me inspiration❤❤❤❤
He's not the only successful jail house lawyer who has obtained a legal degree and could also become licensed legal counsel if the right persons went to bat for him. I think this story is beautiful
shawn Hopwood, a genius on the top level recognized. I bet he could even be on the level in law as Einstein was in science. His stint in jail probably made him quite humble considering his accomplishments.. Amazing story. It brought me to tears.
First generation American-had undocumented parents and grew up poor in a violent home. I only spoke Spanish when I started elementary school and was kicked out of high school. I thought that I would never amount to much. All it took was one day of motivation to get a spark and I followed up. I’m in my second year of law school on a scholastic scholarship. I still have moments of doubt and insecurity but it’s a work in progress. Everyone can grow and learn from their mistakes
Well done for turning your life around very impressive.. And the people in Africa that are or have passed the London law degree WELL DONE TO EACH AND EVERYONE OF YA ✌🇬🇧👍
It’s only happened in America. I was accepted medical school when I was 35 years old immigrant Legally and practiced medicine for 35 years before retired. It’s truly the land of opportunity and power of freedom. God bless America!🇺🇸🙏♥️
He was a trouble child, drug addicted, alcoholic, thief, and irresponsible as an adult. Why is it the system sees certain folks as savable by some feeling or something. There are plenty that are incarcerated that shouldn't be there in the first place. Work on their future.
I was raised a low income immigrant, dropped out of highschool, and now in my 30s just finished my first year of law school. It's been quite the journey, even getting my bachelors was difficult, but I got through it. Law School is difficult, but doable, especially when you have the drive and work ethic. This was refreshing to watch, and I hope many people understand the biggest obstacle one can face is the one you place on yourself.
This is a wonderful and beautiful concept. We can do it. Let's do something positive now!Again and again! Continue and never ever stop!!! Promise, you will never ever stop.
@ no stopping, made it this far, can never go back. Thank you
More power to you! I had same life experiences . Was getting ready to move on to law school when, what my doctor refers to " life happens".
I fell ill and couldn't mo e foward with my dreams.
I love hearing stories like yours! Love your attitude !!! I still try to keep a positive attitude no matter how my health behaves. Makes life better. Doesn't it? Bless you!!!
Know a lawyer who was in some type of situation as a kid. Became strong and powerful but lost his soul. Be careful power does things to people
Keep going! Save this video to go back to for motivation you can do it! God bless you!
I pled guilty to a crime I did not commit and 25 years later i still wish I never did, it changed my life so drastically back in my twenties. I was misinformed by my Public Defender of what the full benefit would be to fight the charge, and was frightened into believing that I could be doing 7 1/2 to 15 if I didn't. I was so mislead and misrepresented, I didn't fully understand the law then and neither did my parents. We trusted the system and what the 'system' said would happen....all so the court and the Public Pretender could move onto their next case to close as fast as possible.
One of my sons was charged into petty Juvenile court. His attorney was given the file just before the hearing. It was pretty disgusting. She had never seen my son or talked to him. The right to council is an ideal without funding.
I saw a public pretender two minutes before I saw the judge. They asked me if I understood. I said no. The pretender told the judge that I did. Got 26 years I had admitted to being charged with a felony. Denied housing jobs etc. All those years later I found out I had only been charged with a midtomrnor.
@@PennyDavis-cm9tlomg that's insane
@@juditrotter5176My son and grandson both have gone through that concerning public defenders! Neither charged with serious offenses( also years apart) non violent. My son spent 4 months before getting to court. My grandson spent 14 months just waiting for a hearing! ( His problem was drugs and kept contacting his girlfriend) Thank goodness he is clean now and is in a halfway home, working and recently got saved. He has 3 more months and then transitions to independent living and probation. He's allowed off on his own one day a week and spends that day with his daughter. His other daughter is away at college but calls her a couple times a week.
I think perhaps you are singling out the public defender unfairly. Obviously, we do not know the facts of your case.
IMO most public defenders are likely doing their best in a broken system. That was the message presented here and it is rather well known for those informed on this topic. FRONTLINE'S `The Plea` delves into this as well. PBS and the NYT have also covered it for many years.
Louisiana's (and other states) system is broken primarily because the taxpayers refuse to fund the system sufficiently. There are good reasons Louisiana, Mississippi, and Arkansas routinely rank at the bottom of all US states and have for many decades.
When one political party's mantra is "less taxes" regardless of the effective efficiency of the government's purpose is it any wonder that the government does not function well?
You can't have shiny things if you are unwilling to pay for them.
"You get the democracy you deserve"- most Venezuelans these days, for the last 20 years. Substitute "democracy" for government efficiency.
Lastly: there are no controls on who is awarded a public defender. No one that requests one has to submit and have vetted their net worth. Yes, it is a right to have a public defender "if you cannot afford one" That last part is not enforced, TMK.
As a lawyer myself, this is just great! Before becoming a lawyer, i worked with drug dependents in their rehabilitation from illicit (illegal) drug use. i strongly believe in the reformation of persons who have broken the law; most of these people are redeemable and can realize their full potential. it takes caring, empathetic persons & professionals who can provide support and means for changing for good those who were convicted criminals (like in this 60 Minutes episode), to effect redemption & personal success for those who erred in their ways.
Riiiiiight😂
Well said, we agree.
Kudos to Seth Waxman for stepping up and becoming a mentor to a talented inmate by insisting upon working with Shawn Hopwood's assistance to argue the case in front of the Supreme Court instead of taking it over and away from him.
now Shon Hopwood is awaiting trial for domestic violence
@@JanitorIsBack Wow, I just looked this up. A shame if proven true. A tarnished reputation if false. A marriage, family, and career fractured either way.
NOBODY in the United States can stop ANYONE from going to Law School !! They might be able to stop you from entering the BAR. But nobody can stop you from going to school !! This guy is a PERFECT example of "Rehabilitation" !! Thumbs Up video !
Law schools can stop you from going to law school. 🙄
now Shon Hopwood is awaiting trial for domestic violence
@@JanitorIsBack Schadenfreude?
@@JanitorIsBack - How do you know that?
@@WILMA_Google his name. That comment made me look and indeed his domestic charges are serious. It’s been ongoing. Per Reuters, when the officers went to his residence, he said his wife was out of town. The truth was he had her locked in the basement with a broken finger and tooth.
WOW WOW what an inspiring story of a bank robber to a lawyer professor.
now Shon Hopwood is awaiting trial for domestic violence
WOW
@@JanitorIsBack how sad. i wondered why his eyelashes were missing. knowing that stress can cause one 2 pluck out eyebrows and lashes. I guess now I know the possible source of the stress.
Unbelievable. I am so inspired but this man and all his pupils. The prisoners, these pupils doing the good work, spreading HOPE. Not only supporting these disadvantaged citizens who became prisoners but indeed spreading HOPE to all who hold justice as most dear.
I am transformed by this report. God Bless Mr. Justice Defender. I have had HOPE restored.
Is there any greater hunger than that for justice in every and all forms? I think not. I think not. Thank you for uplifting me. This is the best 60 Minutes I have seen in all the 40+ years I have watched, both in the US and 60 Minutes Australia. Figures Anderson Cooper is involved. That man is a rock star.
It is a great story I agree. Unfortunately, Shawn was arrested in September 2023 for domestic assault. Felony charges were filed in August of this year. He has not been teaching since his 2023 arrest. Sad outcome for this man after all
@ oh no. Of course I didn’t want to know. Unfortunately yes, I prefer the truth. What a shame. Thank you for the update. I appreciate it, no matter the disappointment in my newest rise above story, the truth is the truth.
This is great. Men helping men. Keep it up. Spread the news.
People helping people
Share this video with your friends and family members! Share it far and wide!! 🎉🎉🎉
This made me cry. Thanks to that young man whose father is from my mother land Jamaica 🇯🇲.
So proud of all their accomplishments.
I am also a JAMAICAN!
He has excellent parents.
What a pleasure to watch this. Thank you for airing this.
This is the best program I have ever seen. Thanks to 60 minutes and the amazing participants
😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅
This guy’s story is so heartwarming. Thank you for sharing it!
What a fascinating story! And this young man is so self-efacing and humble about his achievements and abilities.
I needed to hear something POSITIVE.
THANK YOU ❤❤❤❤❤
The humbleness of this man that's what builds character
now Shon Hopwood is awaiting trial for domestic violence
Personally, 60 Minutes has been available for the entire 66 years that have made up my life...I have nothing but respect for this show... the peterman...
ditto
Wow! Truth is indeed stranger than fiction! This must be made into a movie!
My heart weeps for joy for this young man and his family!
Truth is only stranger than fiction for those who don't read.
This is why the education system in the US needs to change. And why our incarceration in the US needs to change...
On the contrary, here is a story that teaches the value of taking charge of your own destiny, seizing opportunities as they present themselves, striving to make yourself a little bit better each day, and giving it your all when you take on something. Stop asking other people to change for you, be the change that you want to see.
Thank you 60 minutes for highlighting the cruel unfairness of our system. We’ve decided that certain people are worthy to change their life around, but others cannot.
True indeed, and it begins with color
@Mister-Reno true black people get away with too much.
Zjapa
@Mister-Reno 😂🎉😢😮😅😊❤
@@Mister-Reno absolutely! Color and income.
Congratulations!! What an inspiring story from out of the ashes became Phoenix!
Our criminal justice system has been in dire need of reform fore decades. The war on drugs incentivized corruption within the justice system.
Absolutely one of the best 60 Minutes episodes I have yet seen! This gives me hope that some day, justice may indeed be served.👍👍👍 The segment on New Orleans was particularly good. The "litigation funding" segment was also most ... enlightening.
This episode is one of the most antisemitic episodes I've ever seen!
I love these stories
Many states allow personal injury clients to enter into a contingency agreement rather than an hourly billing fee agreement. This was a stellar episode, thank you.
As of August 2024 , Shon new case against him for Domestic Violence assulting his wife has gone mute. His wife drop charged however, the DA is pursuing Assault Charges against Shon. Shon according to other media accounts say, Shon has a history of violence, narricism and anger management issues. Shon needs years of therapy and Anger Management Counseling to help him deal with his anger issues. His story was amazing. However, his violence issues are now tarnishing his amazing redemption story. I have lost all respect for a man ( every man )who assaults women.
Oof. Nooo good. Hopefully the judge on the case orders anger management. IF bad enough cops are called, it's BAD. Hope he doesn't take it out on her.
@cail171 yes. (they) are no longer together. He also needs therapy.
A lot of times with kids, the victim will drop charges because child support when the abuser is imprisoned is $0. Sad, but true.
I was trying to get into Law school this year, but I need my transcript. I can't wait to start and help people.
I'll be your first client.
Hard to believe Anderson? I did nothing the DA had no evidence and no witnesses and Public Defender said if I didn’t plead guilty then I’d be in jail for years or even life. My Public Defender and Attorney said they knew I didn’t do any of what was alleged and charged and they knew the DA had no evidence but they said they couldn’t help me. They never came to see me or answer my calls. The only honest thing they said was, “I don’t have the time to help you, the DA and I decided your plea, if you take it you can get out of jail, if you don’t you will remain in jail for years and possible decades. I lost my Nursing license (and I lived Nursing and would have done it for free) and I lost my daughters who were told multiple lies from my Attorney because he couldn’t convince me to plead guilty. When I kept hearing the lies and how they were affecting my daughters, I decided to plead guilty to charges I never ever did and I wasn’t allowed to choose my plea, my Attorney and the DA did. That was seven years ago. BTW, the Public Defenders never had time to talk to me or look into my case. They showed up in court and shockingly agreed with DA lies in court and lied saying that I told them things I didn’t tell them. The judge wouldn’t let me speak.
What would you do Anderson if you were told you’d sit in jail for years without end in sight unless you plead guilty or no contest?
And no Advocate to boot…actually your “Advocate” spoke more to ADA about your case and was anything but an Advocate
I truly can relate to your story, mine is similar. We made it though....
This is beautiful!
This is mind blowing. I wish my son could attend his classes. Truly inspiring. A brilliant mind just probably bored that his previous education could not keep up with his mind.
The work of Justice Defenders and public defenders is truly inspiring. The law is fascinatingly beautiful, something I wished I pursued. I could imagine Anderson Cooper to be a passionate lawyer.
now Shon Hopwood is awaiting trial for domestic violence
shows you that you can do anything no Matter what people tell you
No, it does not. What it does show is one may be able to however at times there may be forces too great to overcome. Failure to achieve may be beyond one's control.
It is a mistake to extrapolate anecdotal evidence to support gross hyperbole.
@Mark-gg6iy oh my God everybody else besides you understood im sure what I was talking about talking . I don't need to get technical if you're able to achieve it and you really want to you will do it that's the point why do I have to break down what I mean ??? of course if a man has no legs he can't get up and walk no matter how much he wants to I don't have to explain this to my nephews
This is an AMAZING story!
man the first dude really stole my heart lol. thanks for sharing
He is currently awaiting sentencing for an ongoing domestic violence case. Sad outcome
Thank you 60 Minutes ❤, very inspirational episode. The sliver of hope that continues to grow with these extraordinary individuals.
This is an awesome piece.
9:27 "Prison guards tell you every day that you're worthless."
It's just sad how the U.S. prison system operates. As if losing your freedom wasn't punishment enough. No, we have to denigrade you on top of it. Maybe treating inmates like human beings might actually increase their chances of rehabilitation? Many countries have successfully tried it, maybe it's worth a shot?
What’s worse is that the COs were cashiers at Walmart before they got hired out of desperation 😂
now Shon Hopwood is awaiting trial for domestic violence
Some of those people behind those walls are monsters. Think about what you are saying
The second story brought me to tears - this is how we need to make changes in our correction system
The dude is AWESOME 💯🍻
⏱️ Timestamps by TimeSkip ⏱️
00:00:00 - Introduction to Jailhouse Lawyers
00:01:54 - Shan's Early Life and Choices
00:03:35 - The Bank Robberies Explained
00:05:07 - Discovering the Law in Prison
00:06:28 - First Steps in Legal Advocacy
00:07:47 - The Supreme Court Grants a Case
00:09:37 - Winning Cases from Prison
00:12:28 - Teaching at Georgetown Law
00:13:31 - Advocacy for Criminal Justice Reform
00:14:33 - Alexander McLean's Mission
00:17:35 - Training Inmates as Paralegals
00:18:39 - Alexander McLean's Background
00:19:35 - Transforming Lives Through Education
00:20:42 - Transforming Lives Through Law
00:22:11 - Moot Court Experience
00:23:45 - Graduation Ceremony Highlights
00:25:12 - Justice Defenders Impact
00:27:43 - Challenges in Public Defense
00:29:22 - Overworked Public Defenders
00:32:06 - Donald Gamble's Case
00:39:22 - Consequences of Plea Deals
00:41:01 - Understanding Litigation Funding
00:42:04 - Craig Underwood's Legal Battle
00:45:01 - Berford Capital's Role in Litigation
00:47:10 - Ethics and Regulation in Litigation Funding
00:53:38 - Impact of Litigation Funding on Justice
What the hell
Thank you
I. Could. Cry 😂! The joy of these stores are so uplifting for me. Thank you!❤
God showing who he is through this man. Use it for Him and not the world and he will always be blessed.
YesMagnify.
now Shon Hopwood is awaiting trial for domestic violence
It's because of how his brain works, it connects things in a certain way and like he said, "its like a puzzle" so its like a game for his brain. Thats cool
I wish the Government would create a pathway to become a Public Defender . Like an Apprenticeship or fast track Learning to fill the employment gaps.
You have to have a JD degree and have passed the state's bar exam just to even apply. You want licensed attorneys as the public defenders. The fact is most states fund/pay prosecutors many times more than they fund/pay public defenders. There should be more balance there, because as the Tulane law professor pointed out this has ramifications beyond just the defendant and his or her life. When you can make more as a bartender than you can as a public defender in some places, there is one problem. And the other is the crushing caseload most have. They don't need a "fast track", they need to pay more and fund the public defender agencies more so they can hire additional attorneys and paralegals and support staff... and a student loan forgiveness program for those willing to go to the most underserved places for a certain amount of time could also help, because law school is expensive, and then studying for and passing the bar is additionally expensive.
Absolutely wonderful presentation. It proves that if just given the opportunity ( which is getting so much harder in this country if being poor, much less incarcerated ) , there really are more people who have , or may develop later in life , the desire and discipline to use their inherent abilities to be wonderful contributors to all of society if only given the opportunity. We should never foreclose or fail to provide the opportunities , as is happening more and more in the U.S. , to our citizens when they at whatever stage of life demonstrate the desire and dedication to be hardworking contributing members of this country.
I have taught educational classes to prison inmates.I am often surprised by how intelligent and scholastically gifted prison inmates are, if given the opportunity to receive an education. So common is it, I am no longer shocked by the amount of Intelligence some prisoners have.
what a wonderful young man. Like a light in the darkness. May god bless your path
Do we have a branch of JUSTISE DEFENDERS here in America? If not, we sure could use one, especially in the southern states. Also, private management of our prison systems is a terrible idea as it creates endless routes for corporate corruption, and makes it easy for those same corporations to hide it.
Wow,I really don't have the words but, great job guy,and you are a inspiration to everyone
Just ❤❤❤❤. Thank you for this purposeful documentary. I really do!
There's a basic ignorance among people, and especially other attorneys and doctors especially. There are individuals that have all sorts of education and documentation that buy it, or are not really that smart. We are all given gifts, talents, skills and abilities as souls, and it is up to us to either use it or let it go. Some abuse what they've what they are given for position, money, and fame rather than for good. God bless this young man in his life.
Sometimes you need the right environment, circumstances, and motivation to see just how good you can become at something. He probably never would have entertained the thought of going into a career in law were it not for first being a convicted criminal, and spending all that time in prison.
I'm glad it worked out for him in the end. And that so many people saw and were willing to support him in the next stage of his life.
This is VERY SAD, I wish AFRICA 🌍 could go back to the DAYS OF OLD 😥.
I'm gonna use a 70's saying here. This show blew my mind. Awesome job 60 minutes! Thank you!
Watching from 🇰🇪, thank you sir
This is an amazing example of "sometimes you just gotta walk through that fire" cuz you have no idea whats on the other side 😉
Thanks for reporting on this atrocious thing in America
This is tear jerking! I love these people
Oh, how i love stories like this! Turning ones life around - no doubt, Divine intervention played a part ( my take).
What a lesson to take away from this story and never let the overeducated think you can't because you really can.
What a beautiful and impressive documentary. I love their enthusiasm and well-earned pride.❤
This is why you can’t count felons out. I personally think if they haven’t been convicted of a violent crime, they should be able to work any job after 10 years without any offenses.
The Shon Hopwood story is hands down my favorite 60 minutes piece.
Ty for this eye opening story. I had no idea.
Very inspirational, this is one of the best 60min stories
Wow! Great Story 60 Minutes! 👍
What an amazing story I'm so impressed and happy for this young man as well as the older ones who gave him the opportunity I truly gives me inspiration❤❤❤❤
He's not the only successful jail house lawyer who has obtained a legal degree and could also become licensed legal counsel if the right persons went to bat for him. I think this story is beautiful
Amazing episode. Fight it, from within. For everyone fighting a Dave vs Goliath battle don’t give up. there’s Hope.
Man is a legend in my book 😎
This is a great story I loved it
Wonderful segment
Absolutely outstanding!
All criminals cannot possibly be lawyers yet all lawyers are absolutely criminals.
That’s a fact I would have never thought he was an arm robber , he so humble ❤️👑
He’s currently awaiting sentencing for on ongoing domestic violence case. He lo longer is a professor since his 2023 arrest. Sad outcome
shawn Hopwood, a genius on the top level recognized. I bet he could even be on the level in law as Einstein was in science. His stint in jail probably made him quite humble considering his accomplishments.. Amazing story. It brought me to tears.
He unfortunately was arrested on domestic violence charges.
Love this story wow this young man is a credit to our society 👏🏻👏🏻
Proves no matter what you've done in life! You can change yourself for the better!!!!
Wow!! What an amazing journey/story! 👋👋👋
This Guy is Absolutely Amazing 🎉
First generation American-had undocumented parents and grew up poor in a violent home. I only spoke Spanish when I started elementary school and was kicked out of high school. I thought that I would never amount to much.
All it took was one day of motivation to get a spark and I followed up.
I’m in my second year of law school on a scholastic scholarship. I still have moments of doubt and insecurity but it’s a work in progress.
Everyone can grow and learn from their mistakes
Well done for turning your life around very impressive.. And the people in Africa that are or have passed the London law degree WELL DONE TO EACH AND EVERYONE OF YA ✌🇬🇧👍
30:27 The role of the public defender is crazy. I'd be scared that my attorney had all these other cases.
You are the best! Thank you 🎉 So sad that this has to be done.
This is the greatest story ever. It’s very inspiring for me.
Very edutaining and inspirational
It’s only happened in America. I was accepted medical school when I was 35 years old immigrant Legally and practiced medicine for 35 years before retired. It’s truly the land of opportunity and power of freedom. God bless America!🇺🇸🙏♥️
I love 60. Minutes
That's s beautiful program ❤‼️‼️
I love your story.
Prestigious Georgetown Law school!! Wow!!!
Amazing story.
This is a great success story! ❤
I have always thought that doing legal work was like putting a puzzle together. This man saw that too.
An ex felon turned law professor........only in American. 😂😂😂
Well, a current felon, sa abuser, liar, facist is running for president, yea, only in America, sadly.
We have a human right to education. No one can stop you from going to law school 🏫 ⚖️
What a beautiful story thankyou for sharing this im so happy for this gentelman 15:13
Absolutely inspirational story
A (frikken) AMAZING.!!!
It's so hard to turn your life around I know, so happy for him
The first guy is just a nerd gone wrong. Bad guys don’t talk like that😂
now Shon Hopwood is awaiting trial for domestic violence
He was a trouble child, drug addicted, alcoholic, thief, and irresponsible as an adult. Why is it the system sees certain folks as savable by some feeling or something. There are plenty that are incarcerated that shouldn't be there in the first place. Work on their future.
This journey is so good. Like a movie
Gid bless these lawyers trying to help.