The recent focus on unconstitutional bail practices and the calls for reducing the incarcerated populations, while maintaining public safety, has put prosecutors in the middle of the justice-reform movement. Unfortunately, agencies and legislative bodies have yet to provide a framework from which prosecutors could determine the ideal caseload. Prosecutor workload management is a serious concern. Given the urgency and the need for policy-oriented solutions, it is pertinent that we understand prosecutor budgetary constraints and their impact on staff, case processing, and case outcomes.

As such, this research brief will provide an overview of prosecutor office caseloads in the largest U.S. counties along with their funding allocations and staff differentials. We will also examine any potential relationships. Recommendations that will improve the ability of prosecutors to reduce disparities, address mass incarceration and maintain public safety will conclude this research brief.