Ethical Responsibilities in Criminal Justice Policymaking: A Case Study of Integrity and Accountability

Morris Patrick III
13 hours ago
2 min read

Ethical responsibilities play a pivotal role in criminal justice policymaking. They ensure that individual rights are protected, transparency and accountability are upheld, and the use of discretion is guided by fairness (Banks, 2013). In a system tasked with balancing public safety and personal liberties, policymakers must weigh the rights of both the accused and victims while respecting due process and guaranteeing equal protection under the law (Clear & Cole, 2012).

A truly just system depends on decision-making processes that are not only transparent but also enforce accountability at every level. When professionals act without ethical restraint, the legitimacy of the entire justice system is called into question (Banks, 2013).

The Case of Deanne Hardwick: An Ethics Crisis

The case of Deanne Hardwick highlights why ethics must remain at the forefront of policymaking. In this case, social workers lied and submitted falsified documents to the court (Moxley, 2017). Such misconduct does more than compromise an individual’s case—it undermines the credibility of the criminal justice system itself.

This incident illustrates the urgent need for stricter oversight and clearer ethical guidelines to prevent similar violations. Policymakers must revisit existing laws and protocols to close loopholes that could be exploited, ensuring that truth and justice remain the cornerstones of court proceedings (Banks, 2013; Clear & Cole, 2012).

Why Policymakers Must Lead With Ethics

The criminal justice system cannot function properly without a foundation of ethical responsibility. Failing to enforce such standards not only harms individuals but also erodes public trust. When professionals act unethically, the ripple effects touch victims, defendants, and society as a whole.

Learning from the Hardwick case, policymakers should take proactive steps:

Strengthen Oversight: Enforce stronger accountability measures for those in positions of authority.
Close Legal Gaps: Review statutes and policies for ambiguities that allow misconduct.
Promote Transparency: Ensure that all stakeholders can see justice being applied fairly.

Conclusion

Ethical responsibilities in criminal justice policymaking are not optional—they are essential for building and maintaining a fair system. The Hardwick case is a stark reminder of what happens when integrity is compromised and why accountability must be prioritized (Banks, 2013). For the future of justice, policymakers must remain vigilant in creating policies that protect rights, prevent misconduct, and ensure transparency for all (Clear & Cole, 2012).