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Abstract: 

When people become involved with the criminal justice system, they inevitably experience consequences that may well be beyond the intended scope of the criminal law. On a minor level, the entire process of appearing in court, in obtaining legal counsel, and in starting to understand the process that is about to unfold can be mysterious, ominous, or even frightening. On a more major level, legislators in state and federal governments are increasingly adding to the burdens and penalties that might be imposed on persons convicted of criminal offenses. Many of these have doubtful utility, although their mean-spiritedness and punitiveness are often clear. This article discusses the benefits of such punishments and advocates for a more outcome-based criminal justice system.

Keywords: punishment; best practices

Affiliations:  1: Immarigeon.