Criminal justice Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 16

Criminal justice - Essay Example The judge was hearing two criminal cases when he was accused of bias or prejudice. The functionality of the criminal justice system is subject to the direction of legal provisions and codes of conduct. During the hearing of two criminal cases, the judge made a personal move to investigate some facts in relation to the cases (Judicial Discipline & Disability Commission 1-4). However, both the state and the defense did not ask the judge to do so. As a result, the judge was accused of violating the code of judicial conduct. One of the attorneys in the cases, Beau Allen, also had a complaint against the judge. The complaint was filed before the Judicial Commission in Arkansas. In response, the judge engaged in a retaliatory behavior following the attorney’s complaint. Both the bias/prejudice and retaliation against the attorney warranted disciplinary actions against the judge. The Circuit Court Judge was reprimanded censured (Judicial Discipline & Disability Commission 8). Judges, attorneys, and prosecutors play an important role in the administration of justice. When such people engage in unethical practices or behavior, they jeopardize the essence of a functional, effective, and efficient judicial system. Subsequently, the public is highly likely to lose confidence and trust for the justice framework. In response to unethical behavior in the courtroom, it is important to punish court officers for the violation of judicial codes of conduct. In the context of Judge Gerald Kent Crow, being reprimanded and censured was a good start. However, harsher penalties or punishments need to be instituted because these people understand the law and legal frameworks more than the ordinary civilian does. Whenever a court officer perpetrates unethical behavior, it appears as if the system is failing from within. In this respect, such officers should be relieved off their duties. Performance evaluation is also necessary. It is