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

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  • David Abrams
  • Roberto Galbiati
  • Emeric Henry
  • Arnaud Philippe

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.

Suggested Citation

  • David Abrams & Roberto Galbiati & Emeric Henry & Arnaud Philippe, 2022. "When in Rome... On Local Norms and Sentencing Decisions," Journal of the European Economic Association, European Economic Association, vol. 20(2), pages 700-738.
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:jeurec:v:20:y:2022:i:2:p:700-738.
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    File URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1093/jeea/jvab038
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    2. Dippel, Christian & Poyker, Michael, 2021. "Rules versus norms: How formal and informal institutions shape judicial sentencing cycles," Journal of Comparative Economics, Elsevier, vol. 49(3), pages 645-659.
    3. David Abrams & Roberto Galbiati & Emeric Henry & Arnaud Philippe, 2023. "Electoral Sentencing Cycles," The Journal of Law, Economics, and Organization, Oxford University Press, vol. 39(2), pages 350-370.

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