Evidence-based sentencing
Evidence-based sentencing reflects an effort to incorporate a rehabilitative focus into the design of criminal sanctions. Is this an appropriate job for judges? Do judges know enough about the causes of criminal behavior to accurately apply information from the EBS process to their attempts to tailor an appropriate sanction that will simultaneously punish and reduce the risk of reoffending?
Sample Answer
Whether evidence-based sentencing (EBS) is an appropriate job for judges is a complex question with no easy answer. There are a number of factors to consider, including the role of judges in the criminal justice system, the limitations of EBS, and the potential benefits of EBS.
The role of judges in the criminal justice system
Judges play a vital role in the criminal justice system. They are responsible for determining guilt or innocence, sentencing offenders, and overseeing the implementation of sentences. In many cases, judges also have the discretion to decide whether to impose a rehabilitative or punitive sentence.