Our Team
JAC's mission and goals are accomplished by full time staff, contract attorneys, volunteers, and collaborations with partners like Southeast Louisiana Legal Services and First 72+. Read more about our staff below.
Sarah Whittington
Advocacy Director
Sarah is JAC’s full-time staff attorney focused on reducing the collateral consequences of criminal records and assisting clients re-entering our communities from incarceration. She represents clients in resolving traffic matters, obtaining driver's licenses, and expunging criminal records.
Sherie Thomas
Executive Director
Sherie is the guiding force behind a committed team of advocates and attorneys. Together, they address shortcomings in the post-conviction phase of the criminal system by employing strategic policy initiatives and providing essential legal services. Sherie collaborates closely with JAC staff, contractors, and partners to lead advocacy campaigns. These campaigns focus on coalition management, forging relationships, and empowering affected communities to envision and enact meaningful systemic reform.
Laura Reeds
Legal Director
Laura leads a dedicated team of staff attorneys, paralegals, contractors and volunteers in providing legal advice and direct representation to people with criminal records. Through legal clinics, educational initiatives and strategic litigation, Laura directs the Legal Department in furthering JAC's mission to help people recover from the criminal legal system.