Start researching a component of the criminal justice system, post a document in the Final Paper Topic Dropbox declaring your term paper topic (which component of the criminal justice system you are going to research and write about) as well as a brief abstract and at least 2 (of the 5 required) peer-reviewed references that you intend to use.
Sample Answer
To fulfill the requirements for your Final Paper Topic submission, I have prepared a research proposal focused on The Sentencing Phase of the Criminal Justice System, specifically investigating the impact of Mandatory Minimum Sentencing on judicial discretion and mass incarceration.
Below is the document structure you can use for your Dropbox submission.
Final Paper Topic Declaration
Topic: The Impact of Mandatory Minimum Sentencing on Judicial Discretion and Systemic Inequity.
Abstract
This research paper will examine the Sentencing component of the criminal justice system, with a specific focus on the evolution and consequences of mandatory minimum sentencing laws in the United States. Historically intended to promote uniformity and deter drug-related crimes, these policies have significantly limited the power of judges to consider individual circumstances during the sentencing phase.
The paper will analyze how these mandates have shifted power from the judiciary to the prosecution (via "charge stacking") and contributed to the exponential growth of the U.S. prison population. Furthermore, the research will investigate the disproportionate impact of these laws on minority communities and evaluate recent legislative efforts, such as the First Step Act, aimed at restoring judicial discretion. By synthesizing current legal scholarship and empirical data, this paper will argue for a move toward restorative and individualized sentencing frameworks to ensure a more equitable justice system.The paper will analyze how these mandates have shifted power from the judiciary to the prosecution (via "charge stacking") and contributed to the exponential growth of the U.S. prison population. Furthermore, the research will investigate the disproportionate impact of these laws on minority communities and evaluate recent legislative efforts, such as the First Step Act, aimed at restoring judicial discretion. By synthesizing current legal scholarship and empirical data, this paper will argue for a move toward restorative and individualized sentencing frameworks to ensure a more equitable justice system.