National Advocacy Center Training Project

The Congressionally Recommended Awards Program, authorized by the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009 (Pub. L. 111-8), helps improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, prevent or combat juvenile delinquency, and/or assist victims of crime (other than compensation). Funds should be used for the projects selected by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-8, and generally consistent with one or more of the following statutory purposes: improving the functioning of the criminal justice system, preventing or combating juvenile delinquency, or assisting victims of crime (other than compensation). Each of these purposes is framed using language drawn, respectively, from the former Byrne discretionary statute, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 09 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY09 Omnibus Appropriations Act.

The National District Attorneys Association (NDAA) will use the Congressionally Selected Award to improve the functioning of the criminal justice system by providing state and local prosecutor training and technical assistance under the auspices of the National Advocacy Center (NAC). The NAC will provide trial advocacy and topic-specific training and technical assistance to state and local prosecutors thereby enhancing their trial skills and delivery techniques. This prosecutor education will be delivered through courses, a conference, technical assistance, and distance education.

NCA/NCF