NCJ Number
71037
Journal
Criminal Law Bulletin Volume: 16 Issue: 3 Dated: (May/June 1980) Pages: 232-272
Date Published
1980
Length
41 pages
Annotation
This article describes eight innovative case management programs developed and instituted by a New York district attorney that have proven successful and that are worthy of study by prosecutors and defense counsel.
Abstract
Effective case management programs are recommmended as a major check on crime. Programs that have proven effective in dealing with major crime problems are (1) the career criminal project to better focus prosecution of recidivists, (2) use of videotaped confessions and witness' statements, (3) centralized case screening and evaluation, (4) standardized plea bargaining practices, (5) routinized disclosure to defense counsel, (6) focused prosecution of welfare fraud, (7) early prosecutor involvement in arson investigations, and (8) use of a special unit to prosecute cases involving violent juvenile offenders. These projects are a responsible attempt to organize and deploy resources in ways that will reduce waste to a minimum and will most effectively achieve the goals of the district attorney's office in accordance with the priorities of the public. The success of these measures depends upon a staff that is expert in the law, vigorous in its advocacy, and dedicated to the swift, effective, and fair administration of justice. With the proper resources infused at every level of the criminal justice system and with a recognition that such a system must be flexible and dynamic, the concepts detailed here can be expanded to involve the prosecution of every case in the country. However, methods must be constantly updated. Extensive notes are provided. (Author abstract modified)