Profiles in Diversity Journal Recognizes Dechert Lawyers for Pro Bono and Diversity Achievements

The creation of the first national database of “use of force” data by U.S. police has been recognized as an “Innovation in Diversity” by Profiles in Diversity Journal, which recognizes trailblazing organizations that have innovated to advance diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Prompted by myriad questions about possible racial influences over the use of force by law enforcement agencies across the country, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, the largest U.S. human rights coalition, set out to create the first national database of police “use of force” data.

Working pro bono, a 20+-strong team of Dechert lawyers utilized state-level “freedom of information” laws to request data from 200 law enforcement agencies, helping kickstart Accountable Now, a publicly accessible, open-source tool providing reliable data pinpointing when, why and against whom police officers employ force.

In its Fourth Quarter 2021 issue, Profiles in Diversity Journal also honored Dechert partner Sozi Pedro Tulante when it named him to its 2021 “Black Leaders Worth Watching” list. An inspiring leader in the firm’s white collar crime and trials practice, Mr. Tulante was named “Litigator of the Week” by the American Lawyer in September 2021 for arguing and obtaining a unanimous, precedential appeals court decision holding that an immigration judge’s failure to assess the English proficiency of an asylum-seeker violated due process.

A seasoned trial attorney and trusted adviser to his business and pro bono clients, Mr. Tulante previously served as Philadelphia’s City Solicitor, the city’s top lawyer, and as a federal prosecutor.

About Dechert 

Dechert is a leading global law firm with 22 offices around the world. We advise on matters and transactions of the greatest complexity, bringing energy, creativity and efficient management of legal issues to deliver commercial and practical advice for clients.