Implicit Bias and the Bench: Issues Arising in Criminal Cases

Designed for trial judges by trial judges, this afternoon program will assist judges from the Boston Municipal Court, District Court, Juvenile Court, and Superior Court to better recognize and address implicit bias in handling criminal cases, and in particular, arraignment, bail, conditions of pre-trial release, sentencing, and the imposition of fines and fees. The program format will include different scenarios intended to explore if and how implicit bias may play a role in handling these aspects of criminal cases, as well as possible remedies for combating bias.

This program will include a series of small group discussions meant to generate practical ideas for reducing the influence of implicit bias in criminal cases across the Commonwealth.