Pat Nolan is the Director Emeritus of the American Conservative Union Foundation’s Nolan Center for Justice. The Center informs and mobilizes public support for criminal justice reforms based on conservative principles and works with government officials to effectively implement those reforms. Previously, he served for 15 years in the California State Assembly, four of those as the Assembly Republican Leader.

Targeted for prosecution for a campaign contribution he accepted which turned out to be part of an FBI sting, he pleaded guilty to one count of racketeering and served 29 months in federal custody. Upon release from prison, he joined Prison Fellowship Ministries as president of its affiliate, Justice Fellowship becoming a key national figure in advocating for criminal justice reform, particularly focusing on the rehabilitation of offenders, reentry into society, and reducing recidivism.

Pat has shown a commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by incarcerated veterans. He has been instrumental in championing legislation, supporting initiatives that address PTSD, job training, and other resources to support incarcerated veterans successfully reintegrate back into their community and reduce recidivism.

Pat earned both his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and his Juris Doctorate at the University of Southern California. He is a leader in the Right on Crime project—a movement of conservative leaders who advocate for reform of the criminal justice system. His book “When Prisoners Return”, identifies the need for individuals and churches to be involved as prisoners return to society. He is a frequent expert witness at Congressional hearings on important issues such as prison work programs, juvenile justice, prison safety, offender reintegration and religious freedom.