Page 5 - Delaware Lawyer - Spring 2022

EDITOR’S NOTE
As I sat to pen this note, Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come” crossed my mind. This issue focuses on reform within the criminal justice system. As you read through the articles and learn of the new laws, policies and procedures that have been implemented, you may share Mr. Cooke’s sentiment — “it’s been a long time coming.”
The reform efforts depicted in this issue represent a departure, in some aspects, from inequitable laws and unpalatable practices that present barriers to employ- ment and educational opportunities for the underrepresented in our communities. For example, Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano has embraced the mission to develop more effective alternatives to “rushed” convictions — alternatives that not only hold offenders accountable but lead to more equitable results. Mr. Descano provides
insight into a new, informed and thought- ful approach to prosecuting crimes.
An advancement closer to home is illustrated by Eliza Hurst, who shares that the 2021 Clean Slate Act will assist numerous prior offenders with reinte- grating into their communities, offering them an opportunity at holistic freedom: being released physically, mentally and on paper. Continuing Mr. Cooke’s lyrics, it’s been “too hard living” for many. Yet, these are strides in the right direction with the hope of reaping measurable progress as the reward.
Laura Bower Braunsberg updates a 2006 article authored by Commissioner Loretta Young to review the Family Court’s expanded approach to criminal cases involving juvenile delinquency and the collective efforts between the Family Court and public and private organizations to provide offending youth with alternatives to a debilitating criminal record.
Megan Davies and Judith Ritter unveil harrowing outcomes resulting from the overreliance on forensic science. Their article highlights the lag of what is per- ceived as essential criminal justice reform to prevent and remedy wrongful criminal convictions.
As a bonus to this issue, David Brown takes us on a captivating journey through the life of the Honorable Joshua W. Martin III, chronicling a gracious account of Judge Martin’s humble beginnings, strong work ethic and philanthropy.
As we ponder the reforms that have been made and continue to be made to our justice system, let us stay vigilant and continue to work towards making justice accessible for all.
Candace E. Holmes
Candace E. Holmes
SPRING 2022 DELAWARE LAWYER 3