Introduction: New Models for Prosecutorial Accountability

Authors

Russell Shapiro, Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law

Volume

2016

First Page

129

Last Page

131

Publication Date

2016

Document Type

Symposium

Abstract

The criminal justice system in the United States was established on a simple notion: “that it is better that ten guilty persons escape, than that one innocent suffer.” It is for this reason that a prosecutor’s burden at trial is so demanding, requiring proof beyond a reasonable doubt. Yet, while a vast majority of prosecutors are committed to the highest ethical standards, with troubling frequency, some high profile exonerations shed light on systemic problems, most often involving failures by prosecutors and other law enforcement officials to disclose exculpatory and impeachment evidence as required by Brady v. Maryland.

To address this serious challenge, we held a symposium at Cardozo Law School entitled New Models for Prosecutorial Accountability, with each panel representing a unique perspective within our criminal justice system: bar counsel; state and federal judges; academics; and prosecutors.

Keywords

Criminal Law and Procedure, Courts, Elections and Voting Law, Legal Profession, Politics (General)

Recommended Citation

Russell Shapiro, Introduction: New Models for Prosecutorial Accountability, 2016 Cardozo L. Rev. De-Novo 129 (2016).
Available at: https://larc.cardozo.yu.edu/de-novo/42