Theatrical Justice: The Use of Mass Hearings in Operation Streamline Open Access
Kessler, Grace (Spring 2024)
Abstract
This thesis aims to address whether the number of individuals heard in the same hearing affects an individual’s ability to exercise their voice in the courtroom. Using first-hand observations of hearings in Tucson, Arizona, as well as interviews with public defenders and court watchers from across the country, I evaluate the relationship between the number of defendants in a hearing and individual voice utilization in the context of mass hearings of migrants accused of entering the United States unlawfully. I propose two theoretical mechanisms that explain why migrants may be less likely to speak up in mass hearings, considering the literature on the importance of defendants having adequate knowledge of legal processes for using their voices and social-psychological studies that analyze how individuals behave differently in group settings. My research suggests that mass hearings could jeopardize an individual’s ability to use their voice in the legal setting. These findings generate important insights regarding the use of prosecutorial resources, access to asylum, and threats to due process rights.
Table of Contents
I. Introduction
II. Literature Review
Operation Streamline’s Use of Mass Hearings
Individual Behavior in Group Settings
Conceptualizing Voice
This Study’s Contributions
III. Theoretical Framework & Research Hypotheses
Inadequate Knowledge Theory
Social Pressure to Conform Theory
IV. Research Design
Court Observations
Elite Interviews
V. Results & Discussion
Inadequate Knowledge Hypotheses
Social Pressure to Conform Hypotheses
Asylum Considerations
Limitations
Future Research
VI. Conclusion
VII. Works Cited
VIII. Appendices
Appendix A
Appendix B
About this Honors Thesis
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