SpTp: Wrongful Convictions

Catalog description

This course examines the causes, consequences, and prevention of wrongful convictions in the criminal justice system. Students explore factors that contribute to miscarriages of justice, including false confessions, eyewitness misidentification, flawed forensic evidence, prosecutorial misconduct, and systemic bias. Through case studies and contemporary research, the course evaluates the role of legal institutions, innocence organizations, and policy reforms aimed at preventing wrongful convictions and improving justice outcomes.