Reimagining the Role of the Prosecutor

Can state prosecutors stem mass incarceration and increase fairness?

Absolutely.

The most powerful official in the criminal justice system is the state prosecutor. She decides who will be charged and the severity and nature of the offense(s). She also determines the plea offers and presents sentencing and bail recommendations. And it is only the prosecutor who can dismiss charges. Judges, criminal defense lawyers, and even legislatures, do not have the same power as prosecutors. Because they have the most power, transformational change must start with them….