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Article Dans Une Revue Journal of the European Economic Association Année : 2022

When in Rome... On Local Norms and Sentencing Decisions

Roberto Galbiati
Emeric Henry

Résumé

Abstract We study spatial variation in criminal sentencing. We show the existence of local sentencing practices varying widely even across geographically proximate areas. Using compulsory rotation of judges in North Carolina, we find that judges arriving in a new court gradually converge toward local sentencing practices. We provide evidence that convergence in sentencing corresponds to a process of learning about local practices, which is accelerated by the presence of senior judges in the district, and that these sentencing practices are correlated with local norms of behavior. Finally, we discuss the theoretical implications of these results for the optimal design of judicial systems.

Dates et versions

halshs-03792211 , version 1 (29-09-2022)

Licence

Paternité - Pas d'utilisation commerciale - Pas de modification

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Citer

David Abrams, Roberto Galbiati, Emeric Henry, Arnaud Philippe. When in Rome... On Local Norms and Sentencing Decisions. Journal of the European Economic Association, 2022, 20 (2), pp.700-738. ⟨10.1093/jeea/jvab038⟩. ⟨halshs-03792211⟩
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