NCJ Number
92785
Date Published
1984
Length
909 pages
Annotation
These 43 reports, articles, and background papers provide the basic materials required for preparation for debates on the 1983-84 national high school debate topic: the procedural changes which are most needed by the civil and criminal justice systems of the United States.
Abstract
Twenty-three readings provide a general overview of the United States justice system, including the courts at both the State and Federal levels. They also discuss proposals for court reform, factors affecting criminal behavior, the relationships between Federal and State judicial systems, and ways to improve access to justice and reduce its costs. Eight readings focus on the first debate proposition: that the United States should adopt uniform rules governing the criminal investigation procedure of all public law enforcement agencies in the Nation. Issues considered include investigative techniques, the exclusionary rule and its impact on search and seizure procedures, the use of informants, and the use of undercover agents. Readings on the second proposition -- that uniform rules should govern all civil court procedures -- focus on discovery and caseload management. Readings on the need for uniform rules governing all criminal court procedures focus on suggested State legislation, court decisions, sentencing reform, and model laws. An annotated bibliography of over 200 references, a research guide, and a list of relevant publications available from the U.S. Government Printing Office are included. Footnotes and references are also supplied for individual papers. (For separate papers, see NCJ 92786-96.)