NCJ Number
91133
Journal
Justice System Journal Volume: 8 Issue: 1 Dated: (Spring 1983) Pages: 20-34
Date Published
1983
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This note presents evidence from a preliminary examination of the first year of operation of a screening and tracking program for criminal appeals instituted by the Rhode Island Supreme Court in September 1981.
Abstract
The program's basic objective is to identify appeals that do not require full appellate treatment and to expedite their handling through a procedure calling for shorter briefs and prompt oral argument. Based upon the first year's experience, the summary procedure appears to be meeting its intended objectives. The Court disposed of close to forty percent of the criminal appeals during that year through the summary procedure. Elapsed time from docketing to disposition was significantly reduced for those cases. Both judges and attorneys believe the procedure provides fair and effective appellate review. (Author abstract)