The study of decisions in the criminal justice process provides a useful focus for the examination of many fundamental aspects of criminal jus- tice. These decisions are not always highly visible. They are made, or- dinarily, within wide areas of discretion. The aims of the decisions are not always clear, and, indeed, the principal objectives of these decisions are often the subject of much debate. Usually they are not guided by explicit decision policies. Often the participants are unable to verbalize the basis for the selection of decision alternatives. Adequate information for the...

The study of decisions in the criminal justice process provides a useful focus for the examination of many fundamental aspects of criminal jus- tice. These decisions are not always highly visible. They are made, or- dinarily, within wide areas of discretion. The aims of the decisions are not always clear, and, indeed, the principal objectives of these decisions are often the subject of much debate. Usually they are not guided by explicit decision policies. Often the participants are unable to verbalize the basis for the selection of decision alternatives. Adequate information for the...