Exploring Inhabited Institutions: Rural Courts, Case Processing, and the Courtroom Workgroup

• In Event: Advances in Rural Criminology: Courts and Corrections in Rural Communities

Abstract

In case processing literature, the inhabited institution perspective highlights the interactional dynamics of court actors as they navigate the “law in the books,” while simultaneously considering the practicalities and normative expectations which permeate the criminal legal system. Rural courts offer a unique lens to explore such dynamics, as acquaintanceship density and the deeply entrenched cultural norms often coinciding with them may make more visible the connection between courtroom workgroups and case processing outcomes. The present study draws from over seventy hours of court observations in a rural, Southern community. Using a grounded approach, we investigate how the inhabited institution in a small community shapes a range of court proceedings, from initial appearance to probation revocation. Implications for defendants, justice, and our understanding of the courts more generally will be discussed.

Authors

• Kristina Thompson, Georgia Southern University

• Stacie St. Louis, American University