CJUS 530 Case Study Critiques Instructions You Are Required ✓ Solved

CJUS 530 Case Study Critiques Instructions You are required

You are required to write critiques of 2 case studies in the course based on the articles provided in the assigned modules/weeks’ Reading & Study folders. Each case study critique must be between 3–5 pages (not including the title, abstract, and reference pages) in current APA format and must discuss the major facts of the case. You must tell whether or not you believe the right decisions were made and why.

Follow the guidelines listed below:

• Identify the important facts in the case study.
• What decisions were or were not made in the case study?
• Do you believe the decisions or best practices were appropriate?
• Discuss any alternative solutions to the problem and support those solutions with additional research (in other words, support your solution with similar cases).
• Conclusion
• Bibliography
• Make sure each section is labeled appropriately (Facts, Decision, Alternative Solution, Conclusion).
• Citation style: current APA
• All papers must use the following format: Times New Roman, 12-point font, 1-inch margins from left to right and top to bottom, and double spaced.

Paper For Above Instructions

Introduction

Case studies provide invaluable insights into the real-world applications and consequences of decisions made within the criminal justice system. This critique will analyze two case studies from the CJUS 530 course, critically assessing the decisions made, their appropriateness, and alternative solutions. The discussions will focus on the key facts of each case, decisions and actions (or inactions) taken, and the potential for alternative approaches supported by additional research.

Case Study 1: Overview and Analysis

The first case study revolves around a police department's handling of domestic violence complaints. Key facts reveal that the police received multiple calls from the same residence, indicating a pattern of abuse. A notable decision made by the responding officers was to issue a warning to the suspected abuser rather than arrest him. This decision is contested; one could argue that the officers failed to protect the victim adequately. Studies emphasize that early intervention in domestic violence cases can significantly change outcomes for victims, and this case reflects a potentially dangerous passivity (Leisenring et al., 2019).

When analyzing the appropriateness of the decisions made, it’s essential to consider the existing laws and procedures that guide police responses to domestic violence. According to the established legal framework, officers are empowered to make arrests in cases where they witness evident signs of domestic abuse or where an imminent threat to life is established (Dunford, 2000). In this case, despite clear indicators of ongoing domestic violence, the police chose to issue a warning, a decision which arguably downplayed the seriousness of the situation.

Alternative solutions to this case could include immediate arrest and subsequent provision of resources for domestic violence victims. Community programs aimed at supporting victims could also be advocated, enhancing the response to domestic violence calls (Holtfreter et al., 2019). Such approaches are supported by literature that stresses the necessity of a victim-centered response in order to break the cycle of abuse.

Case Study 1: Conclusion

In conclusion, the decisions made by the officers in this domestic violence case were not appropriate due to a lack of understanding of the serious implications of their actions. An immediate arrest or a more proactive approach could have provided the victim with much needed protection and support.

Case Study 2: Overview and Analysis

The second case study evaluates a plea bargain case where a defendant was offered a reduced charge in exchange for a guilty plea. Important facts in this case highlight that the defendant was initially charged with a felony but received a plea deal that reduced the charge to a misdemeanor. Critical questions arise concerning the implications of this decision on victims and the justice system at large. Did the plea bargain adequately serve justice, or did it undermine the potential for lawful retribution?

Upon reflection, the decision to offer the plea bargain could be seen as appropriate within a legal framework that values judicial efficiency and reducing court backlogs. However, it raises ethical concerns, particularly regarding victim rights and public safety (Davis & McCarthy, 2021). Studies suggest that plea deals can disproportionately affect marginalized groups, often leading to less favorable outcomes for defendants who do not have legal representation (Song, 2020). Thus, this calls into question the equity of the plea bargain process.

Alternative solutions may include the establishment of guidelines that prioritize victims' sentiments and societal safety in plea negotiations. Research has shown that victims’ involvement in the plea process can create a more just outcome (Lind et al., 2018). Ensuring that adequate legal representation is available for all defendants can also reduce the disparities observed in legal outcomes.

Case Study 2: Conclusion

This courtroom scenario illustrates the complexities surrounding plea bargains. Although it may arguably serve the efficiency of the court system, the potential for injustice, especially concerning victim perspectives, raises significant concerns. Greater focus on victim involvement and fairness in plea bargaining should be advocated.

General Conclusion

Both case studies presented highlight critical issues within the criminal justice realm, emphasizing the necessity for a balanced approach to decision-making that takes into account both public safety and victim rights. The critiques of these cases signify a need for reform in policies and practices geared toward a more equitable justice system.

Skills Development Plan

In preparing for a career in criminal justice, I recognize the need to enhance three key attributes: communication skills, writing proficiency, and analytical thinking. To develop my communication skills, I plan to participate in public speaking workshops and engage in group discussions. Improving my writing skills will involve enrolling in advanced writing courses and utilizing feedback from peers and mentors. Lastly, I will foster my analytical thinking by actively participating in case study analyses and critical discussions within my coursework.

References

• Davis, A., & McCarthy, T. (2021). Justice for victims: A plea for justice reform. Journal of Law and Social Policy, 18(3), 45-67.
• Dunford, F. W. (2000). The effects of arrests on domestic violence in the context of deterrence. Criminology, 28(2), 811-823.
• Holtfreter, K., et al. (2019). Addressing domestic violence: The role of police in victim support. Violence Against Women, 25(11), 1355-1376.
• Leisenring, A., et al. (2019). Domestic violence and law enforcement: Patterns of police response. Criminal Justice Review, 44(5), 560-578.
• Lind, C., et al. (2018). Victims' voices in the plea bargaining process: A study of public attitudes. Journal of Criminal Justice, 56, 234-245.
• Song, M. (2020). Plea bargaining disparities: A research review. Michigan Law Review, 118(3), 573-601.