To Be Fair is a compilation of interviews with practitioners from around the country who have worked to implement the tenets of procedural justice in criminal courts. Research has shown that when court users perceive the justice process to be fair, they are more likely to comply with court orders and to follow the law in the future, regardless of whether they “win” or “lose” their case. Improved perceptions of fairness also yield improved public trust and confidence in the justice system. These interviews with judges, attorneys, and other criminal justice experts show the real-world applications—and benefits—of procedural justice.
The Center for Court Innovation works to promote procedural justice in New York and across the U.S. With support from the State Justice Institute and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance, the Center provides training and produces tools for the field. Through roundtables, conference presentations, and publications, the Center aims to generate meaningful discussion about the value of enhancing public trust and confidence. In New York, the Center uses procedural justice as a guiding principle by which to plan, operate, and evaluate operating programs, including the award-winning Red Hook Community Justice Center and Midtown Community Court.