FightTheUnjust
Justyna is a former non-practicing attorney who graduated from law schools in Poland and Greece, and also completed several semesters at Yale Law School under prestigious scholarships. After losing a highly controversial case in Florida, she decided to step away from the BAR and leave the state, intending to move on from her legal career. However, her parents continually reminded her of her purpose, which led her to dedicate many years of her career to working within the Bureau of Prisons (BOP), various state prison systems, community corrections, and probation. Over time, through both her professional and pro bono work, she uncovered a deeply flawed justice system—one that frequently failed to protect the innocent and unjustly sent many to prison for crimes they did not commit. Having witnessed corruption firsthand, Justyna became determined to fight for those who had no voice, advocating for fairness and true justice.
Justyna is a passionate advocate for justice reform, particularly concerning sex offenses. She challenges the harsh and often unjust laws that govern these cases, standing firmly on the side of those who have been wrongfully convicted or faced illegal sentences. Justyna seeks to illuminate the stigma surrounding sex offenders and their families, emphasizing that they, too, are victims of a flawed system.
With a focus on education and understanding, Justyna addresses the complexities of wrongful convictions and the challenges faced by individuals who have accepted plea deals due to the daunting realities of indeterminate sentencing in Colorado. She advocates for a shift in perspective, stressing that many individuals labeled as sex offenders are normal, educated, and kind people who have been unfairly labeled.
Justyna highlights the broader societal issues, including the prevalence of false accusations—an alarming statistic where an estimated 700,000 women make false claims each year. Her advocacy is fueled by a commitment to support not only those accused but also their families, who often bear the brunt of societal judgment. Through her platform, she aims to foster dialogue, promote understanding, and drive meaningful change in a narrative that has too often led to fear and misunderstanding.
Her experiences ignited a deeper passion for reentry services, recognizing the challenges people face in reintegrating into society after incarceration. Justyna’s commitment to her work is fueled by her desire to bring change to a system that often neglects the marginalized, making her an ardent defender of those who need it most. Though the fight is demanding, she remains unwavering in her pursuit of justice and equality for all.
This page would probably never exist without the men I consider my friends and the families of those behind bars—those still serving time for crimes they didn’t commit. They give me strength every single day and empower me to move forward instead of backward. Among them is a special person who has profoundly influenced my journey: Nicko.
Nicko has spent over 15 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections. His story is complex, full of questions that challenge our understanding of justice. He was not simply convicted; he was ensnared in a system that seems to favor punishment over truth. His co-defendant who “ran away” from a situation, Nicko faced an indeterminate sentence—a term that feels more like a life sentence for a young man who had never encountered significant legal trouble before.
Imagine being in your early 20s, suddenly thrust into a dark, confining hole called prison. It’s a nightmare, and for Nicko, the nightmare only deepened when he was transferred to an Oklahoma prison, removed from the few familiar faces he had left. Why? It’s a question that haunts many. There are whispers of conspiracies, theories about power and money, and how decisions are made that affect lives, but the truth remains elusive. The individuals involved in these decisions seem shielded from accountability, while the consequences for those like Nicko are devastating.
Nicko’s journey in prison has been marked by a constant internal struggle—a battle reminiscent of Hamlet’s soliloquy, questioning existence and the futility of it all. Year after year, he faced multiple denials for parole. Each denial felt like a crushing blow, as he watched time slip away, compounded by the heartbreak of losing his father while incarcerated. This kind of grief is unimaginable, compounded by an environment where even sorrow feels like a punishment.
But even as the shadows closed in, Nicko’s spirit endured. His story didn’t end behind the bars. He’s out now, navigating the complexities of parole, and I watch him comply with the terms and conditions laid before him. It’s a significant step, yet I can’t help but feel he’s still in a fight for his freedom—his final act in this tragic play. One day, I hope Nicko will finally be able to bow his head and let the curtains close, marking the end of a long struggle and the beginning of a new chapter where he can truly be free.
This page stands as a testament to the resilience of those who have been wronged and a reminder that behind every story is a tapestry woven from pain, hope, and the unyielding human spirit. Nicko’s journey is a powerful illustration of how one can find strength amidst adversity, and it inspires me to continue advocating for change and justice for all those who remain unheard.
Inquires
If you or someone you know has been affected by injustice or wrongfully convicted and would like to share your story, please leave a message under one of our posts, and we will reach out to you. Publishing your story is completely free—our mission is to drive change in the criminal justice system and give a voice to those who have been silenced. Let’s fight for justice together!
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Disclaimer:
The content of this publication is based on personal observations, professional experiences, and publicly available information. All opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not reflect the views of any affiliated institutions or organizations. This publication is intended for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Any statements regarding individuals, agencies, or events are made in good faith and are supported by factual evidence or personal witness accounts. The author has taken reasonable steps to ensure accuracy, but makes no guarantees regarding completeness or future developments. Any resemblance to persons or situations beyond what is expressly stated is purely coincidental. If any party believes that any content is inaccurate or misrepresented, they are encouraged to contact the author for clarification or discussion.
FAQ
How can I find a good defense lawyer, and what qualities should I look for? Ensure that the attorney has no pending complaints with the local bar association. Additionally, ask how many cases they have lost in the last five years and request the case numbers to review the outcomes. Don’t hesitate to discuss financial aspects; if their fees are too high, it’s okay to walk away. Remember, you’re interviewing them for a job, so you ultimately decide who will be hired.
How can I file a complaint against an attorney in the state of Colorado?
If your concern is related to a specific decision made by the judge, note that the Office of Attorney Regulation Counsel cannot review judicial decisions but can address issues related to misconduct or violations of ethical standards.
To initiate your complaint:
- Online: Use their online complaint form for efficiency and accuracy. Registering for their online services can simplify the process.
- By Phone: Call the Office of Attorney Regulation Counsel at (303) 457-5800 or toll-free at (877) 888-1370.
- Hard Copy: Alternatively, you can complete and mail a hard copy complaint form.
Educational
Resource Guide
for Families of Adults
Accused, Charged or Convicted
of Sexual Offenses in Colorado
YLOTL-4th-SO- Giude- DO NOT COPY.pdf
Offering guidance on:
- Attorney Assistance
- Case-Fitting Attorney: Help in finding attorneys best suited for specific cases, ensuring proper representation.
- Appeals and Post-Conviction Representation: Support in locating skilled attorneys for appeals or filing post-conviction motions.
- Family Navigation Support
- System Guidance: Navigating families through the complex criminal justice system, helping them understand processes and rights.
- Leniency Letters: Drafting letters for sentence leniency in cases where it’s deemed appropriate.
- Department of Corrections (DOC) and Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Coordination
- Case Management Collaboration: Working directly with case managers in DOC and BOP to facilitate efficient case handling.
- Parole Hearing Preparation: Assistance in preparing individuals for upcoming parole hearings, including advice and documentation.
- 35(c) Motion Filing Support
- CDOC Filings: Helping individuals with filing Rule 35(c) motions, seeking to correct wrongful convictions or sentencing errors.
- Wrongful Conviction Investigation
- Case Review and Evidence Gathering: Thorough investigations of potential wrongful convictions, working to uncover evidence and advocate for justice.
- Housing Support
- Transitional and Supportive Housing: Temporary housing helps bridge the gap between prison and stable, permanent housing.
- Affordable Housing Access: Some programs assist in securing permanent, affordable housing options or provide referrals to housing programs.
- Assistance with Rental Applications: Support with application fees, references, and negotiation can help individuals overcome housing barriers.
- Employment Assistance
- Job Training and Placement: Reentry programs often offer vocational training, resume-building workshops, and direct job placement support to help individuals secure stable employment.
- Work Readiness Programs: Skills in communication, interviewing, and professionalism help prepare individuals for the workforce.
- Partnerships with Employers: Many reentry programs build relationships with local employers open to hiring individuals with criminal records.
Second Act Support Services – coming soon.
“But if you want to be a true professional, you will do something outside yourself, something to repair tears in your community, something to make life a little better for people less fortunate than you. That’s what I think a meaningful life is. One lives not just for one’s self but for one’s community.” – NRG – Supreme Court Judge Ruth Ginsburg
Release.
Justice Unlocked. 