The Empathetic Prosecutor: Reducing Bias When Working With Victims, Survivors, and Witnesses

Authors: PCE, New York County District Attorney’s Office, San Diego District Attorney’s Office, and Queens District Attorney’s Office

-What does bias look like?
-How can prosecutors reduce bias when working with their witnesses?
-How do you remove bias from your work?

Read our latest report to find ways that you can reduce bias and become a more empathetic prosecutor for victims, survivors, and witnesses. 

Author: PCE

Read about how prosecutors can address injustice through better collaboration with the communities they serve.

In November 2020, the National Black Prosecutors Association in collaboration with PCE and other partners hosted a four-hour training that examined biases in the criminal justice system, using scientific data and case studies. Approximately 300 participants were provided with actionable strategies to bring about a more equitable justice system and to maintain the integrity of the legal system.

Dan Clark, Chief of the Criminal Division in the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office (WA), shares strategies for prosecutors on how to facilitate discussions about race, social justice and equity. 

Authors: PCE and National Black Prosecutors Association

As we know, prosecutors must be fact-based and fair in the pursuit of justice. Prosecutors cannot base their judgements on whim, bias or hunches. Studies have shown that all people have implicit biases that could influence their decisions. Training can help prosecutors to understand this issue and provide strategies for assuring that prosecutorial decisions are based on the facts and not predisposed by irrelevant implicit biases.