Criminals encounter various actors within the criminal justice system, including police, prosecutors, judges, prison staff, probation officers, and lawyers. Criminologist Matthias van Hall studied how prisoners perceive their treatment. "The way prisoners are treated influences their perception of justice and their compliance with the law."
Trust in the Legal System and Recidivism
Fair and respectful treatment by authorities is crucial for trust in the legal system and the willingness to obey the law. Van Hall's research shows that prisoners who feel they have been treated fairly by various actors in the criminal justice system are less likely to reoffend after their release.
Experience with Police
Van Hall's research further reveals that prisoners are most positive about the procedurally just treatment by their lawyers, while they are least satisfied with their treatment by the police. The experience with the police also impacts how prisoners later perceive their treatment by other actors. "This suggests that early negative experiences influence their overall perception of the legal system."
Rehabilitation of Prisoners
Van Hall calls for more attention to how different actors in the criminal justice system perform their duties, with the goal of promoting trust and reducing recidivism. "My research highlights the importance of procedural justice for the functioning of the legal system and the rehabilitation of prisoners."