JS 423 Exam Two (March 24, 2011) Study Questions

Note: You will not know in advance which questions will be selected for the exam so it is advisable to prepare for each question.  Remember the exam will be closed-notes and closed-book. Your answers should reflect the breadth of information presented in the class and must incorporate specific material from the course readings whenever appropriate.  PLEASE BRING A NEW BLUE BOOK TO THE EXAM. Two of the questions below will appear on your exam.

1) Use specific policy examples from the readings and to explore the costs, benefits, difficulties, and ways of controlling discretion in courts.

2) Analyze courtroom practices (for example, plea bargaining) from the perspective of:

a) Rational-Goal model

b) Functional systems model

Be sure to address at least issues such as the attributes of the systems, and methods for inducing and coordinating behavior.  What would analysts look for in each of the models if they wanted to figure out why a policy was not effective?

3) Discuss in detail the lessons of mandatory sentences.  Be sure to include at least:

a) The Rockefeller Drug Laws

b) Federal Sentencing Guidelines

c) Two and Three Strikes Laws

d) Alternative policies that may accomplish the same objectives

4) Discuss the policy lessons we can learn from “Writ Writer.”  Be sure to address at least issues such as the pros and cons of changing policy through prisoner lawsuits and using the courts as policy-makers.