Advancing Pretrial Policy and Research (APPR) is offering a free virtual training, Characteristics of an Effective Pretrial Program. The training is on Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. ET. The deadline to register is Tuesday, November 25.
About the Training
This course explores the foundations of effective pretrial programs and how they guide jurisdictions toward fair, equitable, and evidence-based practices. Through interactive discussions, real-world applications, and group exercises, participants will assess their agency’s practices, identify opportunities for growth, and consider ways to promote equity, collaboration, and their clients’ success. By the end of the session, participants will be prepared to apply these principles to strengthen their local pretrial systems and advance a culture of continuous improvement.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the training, participants will:
- Analyze the seven core characteristics of effective pretrial programs and explain how they influence fairness, equity, and client outcomes.
- Examine how these characteristics can be anchored to promote equity, collaboration, and support.
- Apply strategies to implement or strengthen program characteristics that build trust, provide individualized support, and enhance pretrial success.
Training Faculty
Tanya Anderson, Associate Director at the Center for Effective Public Policy
Ms. Anderson has more than 30 years of justice system experience at the local and state levels, including more than two decades in pretrial justice. She previously served as the pretrial services coordinator for the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts.
Jessica Ireland, Senior Manager, Center for Effective Public Policy
Ms. Ireland has over 20 years of justice system experience at the local and state levels. She previously served as the program manager for Mecklenburg County Pretrial Services in North Carolina. Ms. Ireland is a national expert on the PSA and works with jurisdictions across the country implementing the tool.
Application Process
If you are interested in attending the training session on December 4, please complete the training registration by Tuesday, November 25, 2025.
APPR will make selection decisions immediately after the registration deadline. Confirmed participants will receive additional information about the training, including how to attend the online session and access related resources.
Please direct any questions to Samuel Steed, operations assistant at the Center for Effective Public Policy, at ssteed@cepp.com.