A prosecutor presents evidence to prove that the defendant is guilty of the crime and the defense attorney tries to prove that the defendant is not guilty. They ensure that the defendant’s side of the story is heard, counteracts overcharging by the prosecution, and to supply their client with the best defense possible including: “providing legal counsel to client, arguing for legal innocence (not necessarily factual innocence), searching out violations of the defendant’s rights, and arguing for reduced penalties in some cases” (Meyer & Grant, p. 144). A prosecutor is paid by the state and cannot be hired, like a defense attorney, by an individual. They are hired by the public to punish those who commit crimes, in order to
Seiter, R. P. (2011). Corrections: An Introduction (3rd ed.). Retrieved from The university of Phoenix eBook Collection database. U.S. Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs. (1999, September).
When misconduct or mistakes are made it can have very damaging effects on individuals and their lives, but also to the credibility of the criminal justice system. This can happen and does on occasion (Meyer & Grant, 2003). How can we improve consistency in how prosecutors accept case work? When assessing possible improvements to the consistency of how prosecutors accept case work, there are no simple answers. Putting strict demands on what a prosecutor
On behalf of victims, we act as liaisons between victims and a variety of justice system departments and personnel. We advocate for victims' needs and wishes within the system and help victims determine which courses of action are best for them. We recognize the impact crime has had on victims, and support the important role victims play in criminal justice processes. We work to ensure victims are treated fairly and respectfully and provide services that lessen the impact of the crime and restore victims' losses. We seek to remove all potential barriers (physical, psychological, cultural, etc.)
(Johnson, 2002) Role of Law Enforcement Crime control model cites to a possibility of criminal justice which places stress on dropping the crime in company by altered law and prosecutorial authority. In counterpoint, the “due process model” centers person liberties and corrects and is concerned with bounding the abilities of authorities. The function those act in the policies is that they are authorities collected curricula. The crime control model is in occupied affirm of such authorities collected curricula to engage consequently. The due process model, however, deficiencies less government interest and more private venture.
Ethical Considerations for the Investigator and Prosecutor in Homicide and Rape The investigator and prosecutor play very critical roles, roles that are only fairly fulfilled if all parties are as ethical as possible. Failing to act ethically can lose a case, set a criminal free or could even mean someone innocent going to prison. While ethics in every single type of case are important we are going to examine homicide and rape. Both homicide and rape leave the public hungry for answers. We must be sure that finding those answers are done ethically from the crime scene to trial.
The movie “Death Wish” portrays a constant struggle between the due process and crime control models. The due process model of criminal justice expects a lawful fairness to all citizens. Also, this model attempts to protect a defendant’s rights more than the victim. It relies on authorities powers to be controlled by rules and procedures in order to prevent excessive use of their power. Also, it is important in this process to prove a person guilty by legally-found facts and evidence.
The purposes of victims assistance programs and the programs functions as applied to the criminal justice system will also be examined, dissected, and highlighted. Problem-solving courts techniques, and restorative justice techniques will also be highlighted along with the programs effect on the criminal justice
Probation and Parole Officers Angel Taylor Career Choices in Criminal Justice Darrin Abner 7/27/14 Probation and Parole Officers play a big part in our criminal justice systems and courts system. Both probation and parole officers work with convicted criminals. They both have many similarities and differences. They both have the same goal in mind: to have the offender rehabilitated and make a positive contribution to society (Eileen Baylus, eHow Contributor.) Probation and Parole officers both report to the courts on terms of one’s sentencing.
Depending on the crime: misdemeanor, felony, or petty offense; punishment is rendered after a conviction is determined. Mitigation by the defense attorney occurs prior to sentencing. According to The Law Offices of Patrick Maher (n.d.), “after a guilty finding, the judge gives the attorney an opportunity to speak on behalf of the client. This is called mitigation, defined as “to make less severe.” This is a very important part of the process and can have a dramatic impact on the judge’s decision.” The crime and circumstance dictates punishment and sentencing. Punishment can include probation, imprisonment, community service, and fines.