Motley Speaker Series: Race, Pretrial Detention, and Disparate Outcomes (EMS231207)

This segment of the Constance Baker Motley Series on Racial Inequality is presented by the Connecticut Bar Association (CBA) and its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, in collaboration and co-sponsorship with the Connecticut Bar Foundation (CBF) and James W. Cooper Fellows.

About the Program

When it comes to pretrial release decisions, we know that anecdotally, race appears a factor in determining who is held and who is released. But research in this area confirms that the plural of anecdote is indeed hard data—statistics demonstrate the stark racial disparities and practical realities of who is held pretrial. This panel discussion will explore that research, laying out the framework for these decisions as well as the risk assessment tools used as part of the calculation. And we’ll take it further—into how the limitations of these risk assessment tools lead straight to inequality in the ultimate outcomes for these cases, and whether there is anything in the process or at the state legislative level that we can do to fix it.

You Will Learn 

• The legal landscape and framework regarding judicial decision-making on pretrial or release
• What the statistics show regarding the practical realities of who is being held pretrial 
• About risk assessments as a tool for pretrial release decisions, including limitations and biases 
• About evaluating outcomes with respect to pretrial release decisions
• Potential improvements to the pretrial release system and process in the State of Connecticut 

Who Should Attend

Attorneys interested in disparate outcomes regarding pretrial detention.

Cost

Free