02/16/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 02/17/2026 08:01
The University of Toledo College of Law is joining a network of service providers working to reduce barriers to clemency through the Ohio Governor's Expedited Pardon Project.
The Ohio Governor's Expedited Pardon Project is a statewide initiative designed to streamline the pardon application process for eligible Ohioans who have demonstrated rehabilitation and positive contributions to their communities. It was launched by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine in 2019 in partnership with the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections, The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law Drug Enforcement and Policy Center and the University of Akron School of Law Reentry Clinic.
The College of Law is joining a network of service providers working to reduce barriers to clemency through the Ohio Governor's Expedited Pardon Project.
The UToledo College of Law is the latest partner to join the Expedited Pardon Project supported by $100,000 from the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections. The grant funds will support a new clinical professor who will work with students to assist clients in obtaining expedited pardons.
Their work, which is expected to be underway this summer, reflects the college's commitment to community engagement, public service and preparing students to address real-world legal challenges through experiential learning.
"The College of Law is honored to be included in this important statewide project," said Rebecca Zietlow, dean of the College of Law. "This grant will give our students a hands-on opportunity to learn about our criminal justice system by representing clients in a life-changing process."
"We are excited to welcome The University of Toledo College of Law into the Ohio Governor's Expedited Pardon Project," said Professor Douglas A. Berman, executive director of The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law Drug Enforcement and Policy Center. "This expanded partnership of five law schools strengthens the project's statewide presence and enhances our ability to deliver services within the communities we serve."
Other Expedited Pardon Project partners include the Cleveland State University College of Law, the University of Dayton School of Law and the Ohio Justice & Policy Center.