Second Chances Resource Library

This FJP “Issues at a Glance” brief discusses why, consistent with their mission to promote public safety, fiscal responsibility, and justice, prosecutors should seek to review and address excessive sentences that are currently being served. It then looks at the types of mechanisms that may be available for this purpose, depending on the jurisdiction. Finally, it provides specific recommendations of steps that elected prosecutors can take to advance sentencing review and promote second chances as a mechanism to remedy past extreme sentences.