LEARNING RESOURCE

JSP Staff

When an individual misses court for any reason, a judge can issue a warrant for an individual’s arrest. If the individual encounters police, even during a minor traffic stop, the warrant requires police to arrest the individual and return them to jail. Individuals remanded in jail can remain detained for the entirety of their case processing. Returning to jail can create immediate and compounding challenges for individuals, including losing income, a job, and shelter. Reducing jail populations and disparate returns requires helping individuals attend their court appointments.

This resource provides a summary of the research about the effectiveness of automated court reminder systems and provides practical considerations for centering equity when expanding this technology.