Advancing Pretrial Policy and Research (APPR) is offering a free virtual training, Using Peer Supports to Improve Pretrial Outcomes. The training will explore how peer support specialists—people with lived experience navigating the justice system—can play a meaningful role in improving pretrial outcomes and supporting pretrial practitioners. The training will be held on Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. ET. The registration deadline is Thursday, May 21.
About the Training
Pretrial practitioners are managing growing caseloads and working with people facing complex challenges related to housing instability, behavioral health needs, and access to services. This training introduces a new APPR resource that helps practitioners understand how to incorporate peer support into pretrial supervision. The resource highlights the roles peers can play in helping people navigate court requirements, connect to services, and build stability while their cases are pending. Participants will explore how peer support specialists—people who have lived experience navigating the justice system—can complement the work of pretrial staff by improving engagement, easing confusion about court expectations, and helping others access supports that promote successful pretrial outcomes.
Learning Objectives
- Identify the ways peer support specialists can complement and strengthen the work of pretrial practitioners.
- Explain how lived experience can build trust and help people better understand court expectations and available support.
- Explore practical approaches for incorporating peer support roles into pretrial programs.
Training Faculty
Michael Beltran, client support specialist, The Bail Project
Michael Beltran is a dedicated peer support specialist and behavioral health technician with a strong background in assisting people who have previous involvement in the justice system. Drawing on his own experiences, he has devoted his career to supporting those affected by the criminal legal system, serving in various roles, including family support partner, group facilitator, and client support specialist. He is passionate about advocating for fair treatment within the justice system and strives to ensure that all parties are recognized and respected throughout the process.
Orleny Rojas, senior manager for racial equity and justice, Center for Effective Public Policy
Before joining CEPP, where she supports the APPR initiative, Ms. Rojas managed the implementation and operation of New York City’s Supervised Release Program in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Staten Island as director of criminal court operations. She led a team of social service practitioners who partnered with community organizations to help meet the needs of pretrial participants and improve pretrial outcomes. Ms. Rojas has more than 12 years of experience working with criminal justice and community stakeholders to center and address the needs of vulnerable populations.
Application Process
If you are interested in attending the training on May 28, please register here.
Please direct any questions to Samuel Steed, operations assistant at the Center for Effective Public Policy, at ssteed@cepp.com.
