Practical Justice: The Role of the Judiciary in Shaping Sentencing Policy Reforms
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Authors
Melvin, Leah
Date of Issue
2025-04-25
Type
Presentation
Language
en_US
Subject Keywords
Other Titles
Abstract
Previous research has proposed policy reform solutions to reduce discrimination in criminal sentencing. However, one area of analysis that researchers have generally overlooked lies in the intersection between the judiciary and the design and implementation of policy reforms addressing these inequalities. Studying the judicial system's role in proposed legal reform solutions to racial sentencing disparities could help address racial disparities in the legal system, as judicial power plays a significant role in implementing solutions. In this study, I review the problem and causes of racial sentencing disparities, characterize the demographic and structural nature of the judiciary, and analyze the interplay between potential solutions and the judicial system. Analyzing the demographics of the judiciary and judicial discretion regarding proposed legal reforms provides a deeper understanding of potential solutions to racial sentencing disparities by highlighting the judges who issue sentences. My research also explores potentially beneficial sentencing policy reforms and examines how proposed legal changes might be implemented most effectively. Research conclusions include two key points. First, progress requires coordination and cooperation between larger structural reforms and the judiciary. Second, effective policy reform focuses on maintaining a balance between judicial discretion and the establishment of foundational guideposts.