TOPICS FOR PAPERS

CORRECTIONAL SYSTEMS

The following is a list of topics for the research paper for this class. It is not an exhaustive list but will hopefully give you some ideas. You will need to get the topic approved by me before you begin. The paper must be at least 7 word processed or typewritten pages, double spaced. You must have at least three references and you must cite your work using MLA style or APA style. For guidelines on MLA style go to http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Oracle/4184/Research_Site.html For APA guidelines to http://www.docstyles.com/apacrib.htm . The paper is due by July 1, 2004.

This is a research paper meaning that you have read relevant material primarily from journals and books (other than the textbook and encyclopedia) and web sites. You must cite your references in the main body of the paper and you must have a bibliography at the end. Failure to cite your references will result in a significant deduction from your grade. This is not an opinion paper though you may take a position. Do not provide your opinion at least directly. Do not use personal pronouns such as I, or we or you.

Historical development of the U.S. Court system

Historical development of Texas' Court system

Pros and cons of selection of judges

The French legal system

Drug courts

History of the common law

Civil liability of criminal justice officials

Overview of the U.S. Supreme Court

Ineffective assistance of counsel

Critique of the systems used to assign counsel to indigents

Racial and gender bias in the courts

Which method of judicial selection is the best?

Overview of insanity defenses

Should the insanity defense by abolished?

History of trial by jury

Effects of pre-trial publicity

Should cameras be allowed in the courtroom

Should a moratorium on the death penalty be imposed?

Restorative justice

Sentencing disparity--gender and race

Discrimination issues in capital punishment

Three strikes laws unfair?