Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®
Articles 1 - 2 of 2
Full-Text Articles in Law
Four Predictions For The Criminal Law Of 2043, Paul H. Robinson
Four Predictions For The Criminal Law Of 2043, Paul H. Robinson
All Faculty Scholarship
The Model Penal Code has all the markings of an historic document. It is a sophisticated and enlightened model for penal reform that has put the United States in the front row of reformers. And many believe that the likes of such an historic reform will not come again for more than another century. In my view, it can hardly be disputed that the Code is an historic document. It is less clear, however, that we should not expect a dramatically different code before another century.
Legality And Discretion In The Distribution Of Criminal Sanctions, Paul H. Robinson
Legality And Discretion In The Distribution Of Criminal Sanctions, Paul H. Robinson
All Faculty Scholarship
The judicial system now responds to criminal conduct in two rather divergent steps. A judge or jury first determines if a defendant should be held liable for a criminal offense. If so, then the judge or jury goes on to choose a penalty. Precise rules, designed to ensure fairness and predictability, govern the first stage, liability assignment. In the second stage, sentencing, however, judges and juries exercise broad discretion in meting out sanctions. In this Article, Professor Robinson argues that both liability assignment and sentencing are part of a single process of punishing criminal behavior and should be made more …