About DCJ
At the DCJ, we listen, we amplify, and we act to seek
justice for all Delawareans through advocacy and services.
We provide state-of-the-art, evidence-based programming to our clients, seeking justice for each individual as we seek justice for all.
Legislative Tracker
Compassionate Release
N/A
Problem:
Compassionate Release
Solution:
Expansion of release mechanisms (ex. 4217s)
Status:
Problem:
Death by Incarceration
Solutions:
Reduction/abolition of LWOP, habitual offender, mandatory minimum laws, etc.
Problem:
Pre-trial detention, denial of right to bail
Solutions:
Curtailing pretrial detention without bail based on signal crimes; use risk assessment tools, judicial discretion, and individualized terms of pretrial release
House Bill:
Status:
First leg of Constitutional Amendment passed in June 2024. Passage in a second consecutive legislative session is required for a CA. The 2nd leg may be introduced in 2025.
LISTEN.
AMPLIFY.
ACT.
our programs
DCJ is unique among nonprofits in that we operate in both the advocacy and service spaces. Our policy and education work informs—and is informed by—our direct service programs.
We offer a variety of different programs for adults, including services for victims, reintegration, restoration, and more. Additionally, we offer three different programs for youth, supporting both victims and perpetrators of crime. While DCJ works for collective justice, our programs work for individual justice.
our work
Our primary role in Delaware is to offer a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental environment that encourages and supports the vulnerability of our clients. Additionally, our public education, research, and advocacy initiatives involve engaging the public and policymakers in reasoned discussions of leagl issues to improve the quality of justice in Delaware. Our reformative and legislative work focuses on juvenile justice, pretrial reform, decarceration and sentencing reform, and the collateral consequences of conviction.
Resources
Unfortunately, we cannot accept walk-in clients, but please browse through the wealth of resources on our website. Call us at 302-658-7174 if you would like to be referred to one of our programs.
Events
The Delaware Center for Justice (DCJ) is committed to building strong, supportive communities by providing resources, advocacy, and direct services to those impacted by the justice system. We actively collaborate with local organizations to create meaningful opportunities for education, engagement, and support. Through our partnerships, we work to address systemic challenges, promote equity, and uplift individuals and families across Delaware.
Donate
Your support will activate a bold vision of justice for Delawareans. While DCJ is thankful for state contracts and grants to sustain our client services, we also rely on donations to support our policy and advocacy work. Your generosity will help to expand our programs and move us closer to achieving justice for all.
Events Calendar
Strong Turnout and Powerful Dialogue Defines DCJ’s Visions of Justice Conference
Monday, November 24, 2025 by Tara Mazer
The Delaware Center for Justice (DCJ) hosted its annual Visions of Justice Conference on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at Delaware Technical Community College.
Good Morning Delaware: Celebrating 80, 85, 105 & 135 Years of Community Impact
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
From arts and justice to childcare and youth empowerment, these organizations are shaping Delaware’s future every day.
Delaware Center for Justice – 105 years of justice advocacy & reentry support
General Assembly passes first leg of amendment to ban death penalty
Monday, July 1, 2025 by Coastal Point
In a historic vote, House Substitute 1 for House Bill 35 (HS 1 for HB 35), the first leg of a constitutional amendment to permanently abolish the death penalty, passed the Delaware State Senate 14-7 in the late evening of June 30.
3 New Members Elected to University’s Board of Trustees
Monday, May 12, 2025, By Eileen Korey
Alonna Berry is elected to Syracuse University’s Board of Trustees.
Delaware prison puts new focus on rehabilitation
Furlong, Tim “Delaware prison puts new focus on rehabilitation” NBC Philadelphia, uploaded by NBC Philadelphia, April 4, 2025 5:19 pm
The James T. Vaughn Correctional Center in Kent County, Delaware, has a renewed focus on rehabilitation and job skills.
HUD Publishes Final Rule on Removing Criminal Conviction Restrictions for Fair Housing Testers
National Fair Housing Training Academy
HUD published its final rule, Expanding the Fair Housing Testing Pool for FHIP and FHAP Funded Entities, to remove criminal conviction restrictions for fair housing testers.
Second Chance Day: “It gives you a sense of hope”
Deja Parker
GEORGETOWN, Del. – Probation and parole along with community organizations are making sure a second chance is within reach, by providing recently incarcerated individuals with the necessary resources.
DCJ Board Member Dr. Chanda Jackson-Short added to Dover Police Chief’s Advisory Committee
Craig Anderson
DOVER — On Monday, the Dover Police Department announced the nine-member Police Chief’s Advisory Committee designed to enhance law enforcement’s relationship with the community.
Delaware Center for Justice to host group therapy program for healing racial trauma
Kelli Steele
The Delaware Center for Justice in Wilmington is preparing to host a six-week group therapy program for healing racial trauma.
dcj in the news
Get Involved
Please consider getting involved in this critical work. We have full-time, intern, and volunteer positions available and would love to hear from anyone who is passionate about seeing real change for those affected by the legal system in Delaware.