American University, Washington, DC
Pretrial Systems and Policy Research Group
Do you have questions? We have evidence-based answers. We conduct rigorous research on pretrial decision-making, court and jail operations, and impacts on people and communities.
Collaboration. Evaluation. Training. Technical Assistance. Impact.
Meet Our Team
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![Stacie St. Louis]()
Stacie St. Louis, Ph.D.
Founder & Lead Researcher
Assistant Professor -
![Moriah Sharpe; Doctoral Student; Department of Justice, Law, Criminology, and Security; American University]()
Moriah Sharpe
Doctoral Research Assistant
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![Ava Braiter]()
Ava Braiter
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Ongoing Projects
Which Factors Guide Pretrial Decisions, and To What Extent
We bring together findings from nearly one hundred studies to understand what shapes pretrial decisions and how much each factor matters. We explore whether the factors that should matter do and those that shouldn’t don’t.
How Cash Bail Impacts Loved Ones & Communities
We explore what happens when bail is set: who pays, how and why, and the ripple effects on loved ones and communities. Through interviews and mapping, we shed light on the often overlooked impacts of cash bail.
Barriers for Defendants and Visitors Attending Court
We observed nearly one hundred hours of court to understand the challenges defendants and visitors face, including learning, compliance, and psychological costs. We identify practical ways to improve attendance and family support.
Your Questions, Answered
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We conduct mixed-methods research on pretrial decision-making, jail and court operations, and the broader impacts of cash bail and justice system involvement. Our work includes program evaluation, policy analysis, observational research, surveys, interviews, administrative data analysis, and textual analysis.
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We offer training, evaluation, research design, data analysis, and technical assistance tailored to your agency or organization’s needs. Tell us what questions you’re trying to answer, and we’ll help you get there.
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Yes! We often work with administrative data to answer practical questions, improve decision-making, and support evidence-based policy. We also help partners in developing effective data management and analysis strategies.
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No. We are a university-based research group. Our work is independent, data-driven, and focused on generating rigorous evidence to inform policy and practice.
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As a university-based research group, our work is often supported through university funding. In some cases, we can collaborate with agencies and organizations without direct cost. Larger or more resource-intensive projects may require external funding. We’re happy to discuss project scope and identify what support is feasible.
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You can reach out through our contact form below or email us directly to discuss your needs. We’re happy to explore potential partnerships, projects, or funding opportunities.