Evidence-Based Practices

At the Center for Court Innovation, we are committed to bridging the worlds of research and practice and spreading programs that have been determined to be effective.

This includes spreading evidence-based practices that have been documented by rigorous evaluation to have a positive impact.

When implemented with care, evidence-based practices are likely to make a difference, reducing crime and incarceration. No matter how strong the research supporting a particular intervention, success is dependent on the quality and consistency of implementation. The use of evidence-based practices should be guided by modesty, an appreciation of local factors, and a healthy dose of skepticism. There are no magic solutions to complicated problems. This balance of rigorous study and a strong connection to on-the-ground practice is at the core of the Center’s research-practice approach.

Initiatives

Rethinking Rikers Island

By providing support to the Independent Commission on Criminal Justice and Incarceration Reform, we're aiding in the effort to reduce New York City’s jail population and close Rikers Island.

Publications & Digital Media

Publication
Multisite Evaluation of Prosecutor-Led Diversion Programs

by Michael Rempel, Melissa Labriola, Priscillia Hunt, Robert C. Davis, Warren A. Reich, and Samantha Cherney

This study examines 16 programs seeking to divert cases out of the criminal justice system finding significant reductions in the probability of a conviction, jail sentence, and future re-arrest, along with sizable savings in costs and resources.

Diversion, Evidence-Based Practices
Publication
The Myth of Legal Leverage? Toward a Relational Framework for Court-Based Treatment

by Julian Adler, Joseph Barrett, and Michael Rempel

This research brief argues the central element governing the effectiveness of court-ordered treatment is the quality of the human interaction accompanying it. As some states reduce the use of incarceration—and with that the leverage afforded courts and prosecutors—the authors highlight research suggesting a strong therapeutic relationship is less a matter of length, outside incentive, or even approach, and more one of engagement.

Evidence-Based Practices, Problem-Solving Justice, Procedural Justice, Treatment Courts
Audio
The Pathological Politics of Criminal Justice

by Matt Watkins

Rachel Barkow contends criminal justice policy is a “prisoner of politics,” driven by appeals to voters’ worst instincts and an aversion to evidence of what actually works. In her new book, the NYU law professor makes a provocative case for “freeing” criminal justice from the political imperative in order to achieve real reform.

Bail Reform, Evidence-Based Practices, Learning from Failure, Reentry

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Initiatives

Publications & Digital Media

Multisite Evaluation of Prosecutor-Led Diversion Programs

The Myth of Legal Leverage? Toward a Relational Framework for Court-Based Treatment

The Pathological Politics of Criminal Justice

We work with reformers around the world.