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Judicial Performance and Trust in Legal Systems: Findings from a Decade of Surveys in over 20 European Countries

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  • Pedro C. Magalhães
  • Nuno Garoupa

Abstract

Objective Determining the existence of a relationship between judicial performance and citizens’ trust in the legal system. Method Cross‐classified multilevel models, using data from more than 20 European countries, 80 surveys, and 100,000 respondents, over a decade. Results The longer the time that lower courts take, on average, to dispose of pending cases, the lower is the public's trust in their legal system. Conclusion Judicial performance, operationalized as the ability of courts to avoid delays in the delivery of justice, is a significant correlate of citizens’ evaluations of their country's legal system.

Suggested Citation

  • Pedro C. Magalhães & Nuno Garoupa, 2020. "Judicial Performance and Trust in Legal Systems: Findings from a Decade of Surveys in over 20 European Countries," Social Science Quarterly, Southwestern Social Science Association, vol. 101(5), pages 1743-1760, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:socsci:v:101:y:2020:i:5:p:1743-1760
    DOI: 10.1111/ssqu.12846
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Michael A. Hansen, 2017. "Trust in the System? Factors that Impact Citizens’ View of Courts in the United Kingdom," Social Science Quarterly, Southwestern Social Science Association, vol. 98(5), pages 1503-1517, November.
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    10. Blanco, Luisa R., 2013. "The impact of crime on trust in institutions in Mexico," European Journal of Political Economy, Elsevier, vol. 32(C), pages 38-55.
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