Pretrial risk assessment instruments are used in many jurisdictions to inform decisions regarding pretrial release and conditions. However, concern has been expressed regarding the use of these instruments in that they may be contributing to worsened pretrial outcomes. However, there are many misconceptions about pretrial risk assessment instruments themselves, the scientific evidence regarding their predictive validity, impact on pretrial decision-making, and their use in practice.

Dr. Sarah L. Desmarais, Senior Vice President and incoming President at Policy Research Associates, Inc. (PRA), and Dr. Samantha A. Zottola, Research Associate at Policy Research Associates, Inc. (PRA), will review pretrial risk assessment instruments, including a brief background on their history and development. Dr. Desmarais and Dr. Zottola will discuss the empirical evidence regarding their predictive validity and impact on decision making, including performance across subgroups defined by race, ethnicity, and gender.

Our presenters will also touch on the role of pretrial risk assessment instruments in current pretrial reform efforts, including recommendations for how their use may support, rather than detract from the goals of increasing equity, promoting transparency, and reducing unnecessarily restrictive conditions. You will receive 1.5 Continuing Education Credits upon completion of this webinar. Register Here