CAIL Appoints New Director of Grant-Funded Criminal Law and Actual Innocence Programs

The Center for American and International Law (CAIL) is pleased to announce that Shannon Evans has been hired as the Director of Grant-funded Criminal Law and Actual Innocence Programs, effective February 1. In her role as Director, Evans will lead the strategic planning and execution of CAIL's educational initiatives focusing on Criminal Law and Actual Innocence programs that are funded by a grant from the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.

Since its founding in 1947, CAIL has been a leader in providing education for the legal and law enforcement communities. Since 2003, CAIL has offered specialized training for both criminal defense lawyers and prosecutors to elevate the skills of those professionals and reduce the risks of wrongful convictions. CAIL’s programs in this field include courses focused on topics such as forensic science, mental health, trial advocacy skills, and the special responsibilities both defense counsel and prosecutors carry in cases involving capital charges. In this educational mission, CAIL is supported by grants from the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.

Evans holds a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies from American Military University and is a Certified Court Manager through the National Center for State Courts. She served in the United States Air Force as a combat veteran and Aircrew Life Support Craftsman for nine years. After her military career, Evans dedicated herself to court administration and the justice system. Most recently, she served as a leader in administering court-appointed defense counsel in Lubbock County. Her focus on ensuring access to counsel for indigent persons demonstrates her commitment to justice and the fair administration of law.

Thomas (T.L.) Cubbage, CAIL’s president commented, "Shannon embodies the leadership qualities and innovative vision vital for the strength of our criminal law and actual innocence programs. Her comprehensive background will strongly contribute to our ongoing commitment to excellence and professionalism in the criminal justice field."

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The Center for American and International Law - Founded in 1947, The Center for American and International Law is a nonprofit institution based in Plano, Texas, dedicated to advancing justice and promoting the rule of law through the professional development of legal and law enforcement practitioners worldwide. Today, CAIL's educational institutes have established internationally recognized forums and programs addressing law enforcement administration, energy law, international and comparative law, transnational arbitration, law and technology, criminal justice, and other relevant topics. Thousands of lawyers and law enforcement officers from all 50 states and 130 countries have participated in CAIL programs.

Media Contact

Karla Lárraga, Communications Officer
(972) 244-3436 • klarraga@cailaw.org