Shaping the Future of Justice: Emma Andersson’s Impact on Criminal Law Reform
Emma A. Andersson is the Deputy Director of the ACLU’s Criminal Law Reform Project (CLRP), and she’s making a big impact in the fight for a more just and equitable legal system. From advocating for police reform to challenging outdated sentencing laws, Andersson is deeply involved in reshaping criminal justice.
Her path to this role began with earning a bachelor’s degree from Barnard College before moving on to Yale Law School, where she graduated in 2008. Andersson’s time at Yale was about more than just classes. She dove into hands-on projects like the San Francisco Affirmative Litigation Project, the Rebellious Lawyering Conference, and the Legal Assistance Clinic. These early experiences set the tone for Andersson’s career, blending legal expertise with a strong commitment to social justice.
After law school, Andersson clerked for Judge Richard Paez on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. She then gained valuable experience as a fellow with the ACLU’s Drug Law Reform Project and at Bernabei & Wachtel PLLC, where she tackled cases involving employment discrimination and civil rights. Over time, her dedication and leadership earned her a spot as a senior staff attorney and eventually Deputy Director at the CLRP.
Taking on the Bureau of Prisons
One of Andersson’s current priorities is leading a major federal lawsuit against the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). This case, brought by the ACLU, the ACLU of D.C., and Jenner & Block LLP, aims to hold the BOP accountable for unlawfully keeping people incarcerated beyond their legally permitted release dates.
The issue stems from the First Step Act, a bipartisan law signed in 2018 by then-President Donald Trump. This legislation was designed to reduce the federal prison population, curb extreme sentencing, and provide opportunities for rehabilitation and reentry. One of its key provisions allows incarcerated individuals to earn time off their sentences by completing approved programs. However, the lawsuit alleges that the BOP has ignored these mandatory provisions, leaving thousands of people in prison who should already be home.
Andersson doesn’t shy away from calling out the injustice. “Every extra unlawful day our clients spend in prison is a serious injustice,” she said. “It is egregious that the Bureau of Prisons is imprisoning people for months longer than the law allows. The government must follow through on its legal obligation to get people out of prison on time and back into their communities, where they belong.”
The impact of the BOP’s failure is significant, not just for those unjustly incarcerated but also for their families and communities. Andersson is determined to be an agent of change. “This is about more than just following the law,” she explained. “It’s about respecting the humanity of every individual and the communities that depend on them.”
A Career of Fighting Injustice
The First Step Act case is just one example of Andersson’s wide-ranging work at the ACLU. Her career is filled with notable cases that highlight her dedication to holding institutions accountable and standing up for those who are often overlooked.
Bridgeman v. District Attorney for Suffolk County
One of Andersson’s most high-profile cases involved the fallout from the misconduct of Massachusetts chemist Annie Dookhan. Dookhan falsified drug evidence in thousands of cases, compromising over 24,000 criminal convictions. Andersson and her team at the ACLU fought to vacate those convictions and ensure justice for the individuals affected.
“When the foundations of our justice system are shaken by misconduct, we must act decisively to restore public trust and protect the rights of those harmed,” Andersson said. The case became a landmark moment in the push for greater accountability in the justice system.
Nevada Public Defense Crisis Settlement
In Nevada, Andersson worked on a critical case that highlighted the chronic underfunding of public defense. Low-income defendants were being denied their constitutional right to adequate legal representation because public defenders lacked resources. Thanks to Andersson’s efforts, a groundbreaking settlement secured $14 million in funding to improve the state’s public defense system.
“This victory isn’t just about funding—it’s about ensuring that everyone, regardless of their financial status, has access to justice,” she explained. “A robust public defense system is essential to upholding the constitutional guarantees that protect us all.”
Advocating for Sentencing Reforms
Andersson has also taken on the issue of mandatory minimum sentences, which have disproportionately impacted marginalized communities and contributed to mass incarceration. She has been a vocal advocate for reforms that move away from these outdated policies.
“Mandatory minimums have failed to improve public safety,” Andersson said. “Instead, they perpetuate racial inequities and devastate families and communities. Transparency and accountability in implementing sentencing reforms are non-negotiable if we are to move toward a fairer system.”
A Broader Impact
Andersson’s work extends beyond individual cases. She has shaped policies and legal strategies that challenge systemic injustices nationwide through her leadership at the ACLU's Criminal Law Reform Project. Whether it’s advocating for timely releases under the First Step Act or fighting to reform public defense systems, Andersson’s work is rooted in the belief that the justice system can—and must—be more equitable.
Her approach combines sharp legal expertise with a deep sense of compassion and responsibility. She understands that the issues she tackles don’t just affect individuals—they ripple out to families, communities, and society as a whole.
“This work isn’t just about changing policies; it’s about transforming lives,” Andersson said. “By addressing the root causes of injustice, we’re laying the foundation for a legal system that truly serves everyone.”
With her unwavering commitment to social justice, Andersson continues to be a force for change, proving that legal advocacy can make a profound and lasting difference.
