Who We Are
The Council on Criminal Justice works to advance understanding of the criminal justice policy choices facing the nation and build consensus for solutions that enhance safety and justice for all. Independent and nonpartisan, the Council is an invitational membership organization and think tank, serving as a center of gravity and incubator of policy and leadership for the criminal justice field.
The Council is a catalyst for progress based on facts, evidence and fundamental principles of justice. Above all, the Council is founded on the belief that a fair and effective criminal justice system is essential to democracy and a core measure of our nation's well-being.
Challenge
Our nation's criminal justice system is not producing enough safety or justice. Although crime and incarceration rates have receded from historic highs, racial and economic disparities persist, and too many communities struggle with violence and substance abuse.
Opportunity
Over the past decade, compelling improvements have been adopted across the country, borne of strong backing across the ideological spectrum. Our nation needs nonpartisan institutions that encourage people to focus on facts and agree on central issues. The Council is designed to provide sound data and research from trustworthy sources.
Mission
The Council advances understanding of the criminal justice policy choices facing the nation and builds consensus for solutions that enhance safety and justice for all. We believe a fair and effective criminal justice system is essential to democracy and a core measure of our nation's well-being.
Meet the Team

Adam Gelb

Thomas Abt
Senior Fellow, Council On Criminal Justice

Melissa Austin
The Volcker Alliance

Liza Bayless

Hannah Bolotin

Zelle Calina

Stephanie Kennedy

Marc Levin

Stacie Rivera

Aaron Rosenthal

Jim Seward
Veterans Justice Commission

Abby Walsh

Jenifer Warren

Rachel Yen
Our Supporters
The Council is grateful for generous support from its current and previous funders, including the following organizations.
For more information on how your organization can support the Council on Criminal Justice, contact us at info@counciloncj.org.