The Use of Monetary Sanctions in a Municipal Court in Florida

• In Event: Criminal Justice System Involvement and Policy

Abstract

Monetary sanctions are frequently used throughout the criminal justice system to sanction individuals convicted of committing crimes and to deter them from future offending. Scholars have identified myriad direct and collateral consequences for individuals who are ordered fines, including future arrests for being unable to pay. These economic sanctions place a disproportionate burden on the poor and members of racial and ethnic minority groups. Yet there is little evidence to suggest that monetary sanctions have a significant effect on individuals’ likelihood of recidivism. Drawing on systematic courtroom observation data collected in misdemeanor arraignment and criminal traffic courtrooms in Northern Florida, the present study explores the practice of administering fines in a municipal court system. In addition to capturing the prevalence of fines, the study seeks to identify factors associated with the receipt of fines and to gain insight into judicial decision-making processes.

Authors

• Maria Diaz Mize, Florida State University

• Jennifer E. Copp, Florida State University