Issue Areas:

State Courts
Law Enforcement
Recidivism & Reentry

Education:

The University of Texas School of Law – J.D.

LBJ School of Public Affairs – MGPS

The University of Texas at Austin – B.A. (Government & Philosophy)

Focus

Luis Soberon is Senior Policy Advisor and In-House Counsel at Texas 2036, where he works on government performance. He covers issues across the justice system, from the regulation of law enforcement and the efficacy of state courts to reforms in prisons and beyond, with a particular focus on improving successful reentry after involvement with the justice system. In his role as In-House Counsel, Luis facilitates legal compliance across Texas 2036’s various teams. 

Impact

At Texas 2036, Luis has spearheaded research and advocacy projects related to reforming the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, addressing backlogs in state court criminal dockets and exploring opportunities to improve successful reentry after involvement with the justice system. His work includes efforts to:

• Strengthen reentry opportunities: Explore policies that support successful reentry for Texans leaving the criminal justice system, including expanded access to higher education in prison, access to licenses and certifications for incarcerated Texans and other opportunities that can improve long-term outcomes.
• Improve corrections settings: Examine opportunities to improve conditions and health outcomes for both incarcerated Texans and corrections staff.
• Strengthen state courts: Examine the effectiveness of Texas courts by improving the quality and availability of data used to understand the justice system.
• Improve law enforcement regulation and oversight: Research opportunities to improve data quality, transparency and accountability in the regulation of law enforcement agencies and peace officers in Texas.

Past Experience

Before joining Texas 2036, Luis spent six years working in key roles within the Texas Legislature, most recently as Chief of Staff and General Counsel for state Rep. John Turner, D-Dallas. His legislative work centered on diverse policy areas, including defense and veterans’ issues, higher education and the state budget.

He has been awarded for his legislative work on behalf of first responders and has been recognized for his expertise in the laws governing the legislative process and parliamentary procedure, serving in leadership roles for the Legislative and Campaign Law Section of the State Bar. He is Board Certified in Legislative and Campaign Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.