The Supreme Court, crime & the ideal of equal justice
By: Christopher E. Smith, Christina DeJong, & John D. Burrow.
Contributors: DeJong, Christina, 1967-; Burrow, John D.
Series: Studies in crime & punishment,; vol. 14; Studies in crime and punishment ;; v. 14.
Publisher: P. Lang; Peter Lang Publishing
Published: 2003
Place of publication: New York
Language: eng
Number of pages: 237
Subjects: United States. Supreme Court.; Criminal justice, Administration of -- United States.; Equality before the law -- United States.; Crime -- United States.
Other titles: Supreme Court, crime, and the ideal of equal justice
Description: The words "equal justice under law" are literally etched in stone and prominently displayed above the entrance to the United States Supreme Court. These words stand as an enduring proclamation of a paramount objective of the courts and the Constitution. Although judges are the guardians of the Constitution's principles, this book examines how their decisions both advance and impede the ideal of equal justice. By analyzing interpretations of "equal protection" and other rights affecting discrimination and disadvantages linked to race, gender, and social status, Smith, DeJong, and Burrow illustrate how constitutional law often facilitates the denial of equal justice for people drawn into the criminal justice system.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. [209]-220) and index.