J.J. Prescott is Professor of Law, Professor of Economics (courtesy), and Co-Director of the Empirical Legal Studies Center and the Program in Law and Economics at the University of Michigan.
Prescott’s research focuses on criminal law, sentencing law and reform, employment law, and the dynamics of civil litigation. Current projects include assessing the effects of post-release sex offender laws, studying the socio-economic consequences of criminal record expungement, evaluating the effects of prosecutorial discretion and decision-making on short- and long-term defendant outcomes, and investigating partial settlements in litigation.
Prescott also leads the University of Michigan’s Online Court Project, which uses technology to help people facing warrants, fines, and minor charges resolve their cases online.