NCJ Number
81773
Date Published
1981
Length
39 pages
Annotation
The report summarizes work on a formula for estimating 'case weights,' using attorney time as the unit of measurement, to estimate the cost of felony prosecution in the Office of the District Attorney for Los Angeles County, Calif.
Abstract
A case weight is the average amount of attorney time spent on a given type of case. Cases were categorized according to three dimensions: charge, disposition, and case status. A general methodolgy was developed suitable for determining the costs of legal services both in Los Angeles and in other settings. The basic methodology involved recording daily time data by all deputy district attorneys who processed felony cases in four branch offices as well as in the central office over 73-day period. An important application of the case weights identified through this strategy lies in providing a focal point for external funding decisions. A more prescriptive use of the analysis lies in suggesting where changes in the administrative structure should be implemented. For example, findings reveal that an inordinate amount of attorney time is spent 'just waiting.' Seven figures and four tables are provided.