These resources give practitioners and reformers new strategies to break cycles of rearrest and create a justice system that leaves people better off.
For far too many people, an encounter with the justice system marks the start of a vicious cycle that leaves them no better off—and even worse off—than when they came in.
That cycle is far from inevitable. By shifting to responses that provide support instead of creating more harm, we can build a justice system that puts people on track for a better, safer future.
Below are three resources that draw on field-leading research and the experiences of practitioners around the country to shine light on a path forward.
1. A Moment for Misdemeanor Policy Change
Low-level misdemeanors make up the vast majority of cases in the justice system. Yet the evidence shows that prosecuting people for nonviolent misdemeanors may make us less safe in the long run, increasing the chances someone will come into the system again.
Drawing on insights from a working session with practitioners from around the country, our recent policy brief highlights ways to help people charged with low-level offenses resolve their case and get back on their feet as quickly as possible. That, in turn, frees up resources to focus on the needs of the small number of people repeatedly cycling through courts and jails.
2. Advancing the Psychology of Diversion
People with mental health needs are vastly overrepresented in prisons and jails. But many of those needs go undetected, leaving people struggling with treatment plans that aren’t suited for them—or shut out from support altogether.
Implementing more thorough psychological assessments can help connect people in the justice system to individualized care and increase their chances of success in treatment programs that keep them out of jail and prison. Our report outlines key aspects of those assessments and explores real-life examples of how they can support better outcomes.
3. Series: Municipal Court Reform
Thousands of people each year have their first encounter with the justice system in local courts that don’t follow typical rules. There are more than 7,500 municipal courts across the country, and together they collect over $2 billion in fines and fees annually.
Because of their roots in local communities, these courts also have the flexibility to deliver justice in new ways—prioritizing care, rather than punishment. In our five-part webinar series, we invited reformers and practitioners to share their insights about how municipal courts can pivot to solutions that address people’s unmet needs and prevent further involvement in the justice system.