Criminal Justice System and Mass Incarceration in the U.S.A.

Vocabulary flashcards about the criminal justice system and mass incarceration.

A story of justice and redemption involving Walter McMillan and Bryan Stevenson.

Just Mercy

Walter McMillan

Wrongfully convicted of murder in Monroeville, Alabama in 1986; his trial lasted only a day and a half.

Bryan Stevenson

American lawyer, social justice activist, and founder of the Equal Justice Initiative.

Mass Incarceration

The state of the U.S. having more people in prison than any other country in the world.

War on Drugs

A significant factor contributing to the high incarceration rates in the United States.

Negative Credential

The stigma conferred on ex-prisoners that reduces their readiness for the job market; 75% are unable to find work in the first year after release.

Incarceration Rate Comparison

The U.S. has an incarceration rate seven times higher than other developed countries like Japan, South Korea, and Denmark.

Poverty Penalty

Fines and fees imposed by the court system that disproportionately affect poor people, leading to a cycle of debt and incarceration.

Collateral Consequences

The impact of incarceration extends beyond those behind bars to their families and communities, resulting in mental health problems and social difficulties.

Cycle of Poverty

A combination of financial, psychological, personal, societal, past, and present factors that perpetuate poverty.

Social Reintegration

The focus of prison systems in countries like Germany and the Netherlands, prioritizing rehabilitation over punishment.

Equal Justice Initiative

Organization founded by Bryan Stevenson.