Prosecutors committed to reform need talented staff members who share that commitment, and our best legal talent should flock to their offices.

James Forman, Jr.’s quote emphasizes the importance of talented staff members in prosecutors' offices, especially for those committed to reform. He argues that prosecutors who are dedicated to changing the criminal justice system need to be surrounded by a team that shares their vision and commitment to justice. This implies that the success of legal reform efforts, particularly within the criminal justice system, relies heavily on having individuals who not only possess legal skills but also have a strong desire to drive positive change.

Forman highlights that the best legal talent should be attracted to work in prosecutors' offices if they are to be effective agents of reform. His statement advocates for creating an environment where legal professionals who are passionate about making a difference in the system are drawn to work on cases that align with their values. This reflects a broader goal of attracting a new generation of legal professionals who are more focused on justice and fairness than on traditional, often punitive, approaches to law enforcement.

The quote also underscores the idea that prosecutors play a crucial role in criminal justice reform. Rather than simply pursuing convictions, they should be champions for fairness and equity, ensuring that the system works in a way that serves everyone, particularly marginalized communities. Forman, a law professor and activist who has written extensively on criminal justice issues, advocates for a shift in how prosecutors approach their work—prioritizing reform over the status quo.

The origin of this quote likely stems from Forman’s own experience as a lawyer, professor, and activist who has been involved in efforts to reform the criminal justice system. He has written about the need for a more equitable and humane approach to law enforcement, particularly in the context of how prosecutors contribute to mass incarceration. This quote reflects his belief that meaningful reform requires not just changing policies but also reshaping the culture and personnel within prosecutors' offices to align with the values of justice and accountability.