Widening public access to judicial decision making through information systems

Narrative

Research in organisational decision making has led to the establishment of a Sentencing Information System for the Republic of Ireland (ISIS) which enables judges, lawyers and the public to access information on sentencing patterns within the Republic of Ireland. ISIS enables Judges and others engaged in the sentencing process to develop their knowledge and understanding of sentencing practices. This benefits the understanding of the process for defendants, witnesses and victims. All of this is being done without jeopardizing judicial independence and impartiality. With 7000 user visits annually from 84 different countries, ISIS has international impact on increasing the transparency of judicial decision-making, is widely regarded as a particularly significant development in legal processes, has stimulated public discussion on sentencing patterns and is informing public policy in the management of the criminal justice system.

Impact status	Open
Category of impact	Policy and legislation, Public understanding, information and debate, Professional practice, training and standards