Journal article
Peeking Behind the Iron Curtain: How Law ‘Works’ Behind Prison Walls
Southern California Interdisciplinary Law Journal, Vol.16(16 1), pp.137-555
01 Oct 2006
Abstract
In order for prisons to function optimally, they require heavy rule orientation. These rules govern every aspect of prison life and carry significant penalties for their violation. In reality, the nature and structure of these rules would in many cases earn them the designation as a system of laws. In Wisconsin specifically, and quite possibly in most prisons generally, every aspect of an inmate's life is controlled by this system of laws. These laws simultaneously structure daily life and provide the means, or at minimum the rationale, to mete discipline as a form of social control. These laws require that inmates maintain a daily regimen of proper grooming, be punctual and attend all required activities, never lie in general or about staff, and never disrespect another inmate or staff person. In Wisconsin, these laws are simply titled "Discipline" and are located in the Department of Corrections' section of the Wisconsin Administrative Code.
I presented the above sampling of laws to make two points. First, contrary to what might be expected, not all laws available to inmate violation are criminal. Second, given the abundance of laws imposed behind prison walls, it is highly probable that even the most careful inmate will commit a violation at some point during his incarceration. The abundant opportunities to violate the law, no matter how minor or criminal, expose the inmate to a near certain likelihood of an appearance before the inmate disciplinary committee-an unpopular venue for inmates.
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Details
- Title
- Peeking Behind the Iron Curtain: How Law ‘Works’ Behind Prison Walls
- Creators
- Donald F. Tibbs
- Publication Details
- Southern California Interdisciplinary Law Journal, Vol.16(16 1), pp.137-555
- Publisher
- Southern California Interdisciplinary Law Journal Southern California Interdisciplinary Law Journal
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Thomas R. Kline School of Law
- Identifiers
- 991021867239604721