It is a strange anomaly of our justice system: discovery is easier to obtain in civil matters where the major dispute is monetary than in criminal matters where an individual’s liberty is at stake. Change is needed in order to ensure individuals do not plead guilty to crimes they did not commit, and that individuals charged with offenses obtain the evidence against them in time to perpare a defense that may well establish their innocence. One of the best places to initiate such change is through the timely disclosure of witness statements, specifically through reform of the Jencks Act. To read the article and learn more about the Act and why and how to reform it, click here.