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The Causal Impact of Counsel at First Appearance: Evidence from Two Randomized Control Trials

Author

Listed:
  • Naufal, George S

    (Texas A&M University)

  • Patterson, Bethany

    (Texas A&M University)

  • Danser, Renee

    (Harvard Law School)

  • Greiner, D. James

    (Harvard Law School)

Abstract

This paper examines the impact of defense counsel at first appearance (CAFA) on criminal justice outcomes using randomized control trials in two Texas counties. The study evaluates the influence of CAFA on bond amounts, pretrial release, conditions, and post-magistration outcomes such as recidivism and failure to appear. Results show that while CAFA reduces bond amounts and influences bond types in one jurisdiction, its effects on pretrial release and recidivism are limited. These findings highlight jurisdictional differences and suggest that CAFA's impact may be more modest than previous studies indicate, underscoring the need for further research in this area.

Suggested Citation

  • Naufal, George S & Patterson, Bethany & Danser, Renee & Greiner, D. James, 2025. "The Causal Impact of Counsel at First Appearance: Evidence from Two Randomized Control Trials," IZA Discussion Papers 17712, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp17712
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    first appearance; RCT; bail; pretrial release;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C93 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Field Experiments
    • J08 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - General - - - Labor Economics Policies
    • K4 - Law and Economics - - Legal Procedure, the Legal System, and Illegal Behavior
    • K14 - Law and Economics - - Basic Areas of Law - - - Criminal Law

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