The Committee on Law and Justice’s (CLAJ) mission is to improve government decision making and public policy and promote the understanding and dissemination of research in matters involving law and justice. CLAJ’s independent, expert reports and other scientific activities identify new areas of research, assist in resolving scientific controversies, extend the research agenda in established areas, promote theory development, and advance research-based policies.

During its 50-year history, CLAJ has attracted nationally and internationally renowned experts to provide independent, objective advice to the nation. The committee is composed of national experts with interdisciplinary knowledge drawn from the fields of criminal justice, criminology, public policy, law, sociology, economics, and behavioral sciences, among others.

Impact Highlights

• Influencing policy: Informing federal efforts around reentry, recidivism, and desistance, including the U.S. Department of Justice's implementation of the Second Chance Act.
• Changing practice: Guiding development of law enforcement capacity building programming led by the U.S. Department of State.
• Setting the research agenda: Informing federal and philanthropic solictations related to policing and community-based approaches for advancing public safety.

Our Focus Areas

• Crime and victimization: Examining crime and victimization through activities focused on the causes, trends, and prevention of crime, the victimization of vulnerable populations, and family violence.
• Criminal justice system: Focusing on the workings of the criminal justice system, encompassing, for example, investigation and enforcement, adjudication, and corrections.
• Youth & the justice system: Exploring law and justice topics in the context of youth, adolescent development, and the juvenile justice system.

To learn more about CLAJ’s work, contact us at CLAJ@nas.edu.