NCJ Number
100687
Journal
Evaluation Review Volume: 9 Issue: 5 Dated: (October 1985) Pages: 547-573
Date Published
1985
Length
27 pages
Annotation
This study presents a technique for evaluating assigned counsel systems, (AH) appointment of the private bar. A sample of 400 cases was drawn at each site in a midwestern State, with 200 cases represented by assigned counsel and 200 by retained counsel; half were felony and half were misdemeanor cases. Cases were filed in 1981-82. Data were obtained from court files on defendant bond status at first appearance and disposition, nature and method of case disposition, sentence, number of motions filed, number of attorney appearances in court, and number of days from first appearance to disposition. Cost per case was determined for each system. AH assigned counsel were more likely to have clients in jail at the time of case disposition and have clients receive incarceration sentences. The PD system was speedier in processing misdemeanors without sacrificing the quality of representation. Cost per case was lower for the PD system in felony and misdemeanor cases as well as in trial and nontrial cases. Tabular data, 13 notes, and 11 references.