Decision making in sexual assault cases: Do black and female judges make a difference?

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

61 Scopus citations

Abstract

Those who champion the recruitment of minorities and women to the bench argue that black and female judges could bring about important policy changes. This study compared decision making by black and white and by male and female judges in sexual assault cases disposed of in Detroit Recorder's Court from 1976 to 1985. We found no racial differences and very few gender differences. The only exception was that female judges imposed longer prison sentences than did male judges. Considered together, the findings are indicative of the powerful influence of socialization on the legal profession and on the judicial role.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)83-105
Number of pages23
JournalWomen and Criminal Justice
Volume2
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 21 1991
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Gender Studies
  • Law

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