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Criminal Justice Reform in Dallas County, TX

Idea Category: Criminal Justice

As his county explores the financial feasibility of reducing or eliminating criminal fees and fines, NewDEAL Leader Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins is advocating for the reduction of court fees and fines to reform the criminal justice system into one that does not discriminate based on poverty. Judge Jenkins noted that these fees can cause defendants to become stuck in the justice system when they're forced to choose between paying for basic needs like rent or paying fees, leading to jail time. Read more about the study and recommendations expected by the end of 2019, and Judge Jenkins' insight on how "ill-thought-out" fees and fines can impact people's ability to work and go to school.

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