Phillips Black

Marco Maldonado memorial writing contest

Marco (Mu) Maldonado was wrongfully arrested at the age of 19 for a crime he did not commit and was sentenced to die in prison. For 28 years, armed with only pen and paper, Marco fought tirelessly to prove his innocence. On November 18, 2021, after successfully litigating his case pro se in both state and federal court, a court vacated Marco’s conviction and ordered his release. Despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Marco spent his time fighting for his freedom and studying during his wrongful detention, earning an undergraduate degree from Villanova University in Liberal Arts and a Master’s Degree in Humanities from California State University, Dominguez Hills, while incarcerated.

Upon his release, Marco hit the ground running, beginning a career in the legal field with the nonprofit public interest law practice, Phillips Black. At Phillips Black, he was an essential member of the firm and his indispensable skills—a razor sharp eye for records and close knowledge of post-conviction law—led to the exonerations of several men. Marco also co-authored a law review article about how the legal system strips those it targets of their agency, and how he was able to regain his own voice in prison. While in the process of enrolling in law school, Marco passed away very suddenly. Marco was beloved by his friends, family, colleagues, and even those who he merely encountered in our community. It is in his memory that this writing contest is being launched.