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ARTICLE · 14 MAY 2021

Pro Bono Client Released From Prison Without Retrial

Jenner & Block LLP
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On May 6, our client Kenneth "Ken" Smith was released from state prison after serving 19 years for a murder and robbery that he did not commit.

United StatesLitigation, Mediation & Arbitration
Jenner & Block
Jenner & Block

On May 6, our client Kenneth "Ken" Smith was released from state prison after serving 19 years for a murder and robbery that he did not commit.

The firm first took Ken's case in 2006 after a state appeals court reversed and remanded his conviction for murder and 67-year sentence for a new trial. Since that time, various teams led by Partner David Jimenez-Ekman have represented the client through a second trial, a direct appeal, a third trial, another direct appeal, and a federal habeas petition.

Following appeals of his habeas petition, the Seventh Circuit sent an order calling for Ken's immediate release without conditions at the end of April. This means that he is free from prison and will not be required to report to parole or a probation officer.

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