Women in the Criminal Justice System: Briefing Sheets

During the last 20 years, there has been a profound change in the manner in which women are treated within the criminal justice system.

This has been a result of more expansive law enforcement efforts, stiffer drug sentencing laws, and post-conviction barriers to reentry that uniquely affect women. In response, the consideration of a gender-specific approach to studying criminal justice policy has moved from a mere footnote to a full-fledged reform movement.

This series documents the gender implications of changes that have occurred over the last 20 years within the criminal justice system, including expansive law enforcement, stiffer drug sentencing laws and reentry barriers. The briefing sheets delve into family, socioeconomic and physical and mental health issues that women and their families face as a result of being incarcerated.

To read the briefing sheets, download the PDF below.