Evaluating Pretrial Reform: The Case of Discovery Reform in New York

• In Event: The Many Stakeholders in Pretrial Justice

Abstract

The 2019 Discovery Reform laws passed in New York required prosecutors to disclose evidentiary material to the defense within a certain time period based on arraignment detention status. The purpose of this study is to assess the completeness of available discovery data for all of New York and assess the impact this law may have had on dismissal rates as well as the level of compliance of prosecutors across New York State. This study will assess the level at which prosecutors appear to be complying with the Discovery Reform laws, and the difference among counties, charge type, and case processing times. We will also compare the differences between outside of New York City and within New York City. This study will analyze discovery data through 2024 to identify if compliance has improved and discuss the changes that have occurred since 2019.

Author

• Anna Stenkamp, Data Collaborative for Justice