The Role of State Supreme Courts in the New Judicial Federalism. - (Contributions in Legal Studies) by Susan P Fino (Hardcover)

About the Book

In The Role of State Supreme Courts in the New Judicial Federalism, Susan P. Fino presents a comprehensive analysis of the work of the state supreme court in the context of the new emphasis of states' rights. She provides both quantitative and qualitative data on state supreme court decisions, and includes an analysis of over 1,200 opinions rendered by six selected courts, thus laying the foundation for a systematic study of the state supreme court system. Fino also presents hypotheses to explain the variations in decision making observed from state to state. Her work concludes with observations on the prospects for an enhanced role for the state supreme court system, and suggestions for improving the institution.

Book Synopsis

In The Role of State Supreme Courts in the New Judicial Federalism, Susan P. Fino presents a comprehensive analysis of the work of the state supreme court in the context of the new emphasis of states' rights. She provides both quantitative and qualitative data on state supreme court decisions, and includes an analysis of over 1,200 opinions rendered by six selected courts, thus laying the foundation for a systematic study of the state supreme court system. Fino also presents hypotheses to explain the variations in decision making observed from state to state. Her work concludes with observations on the prospects for an enhanced role for the state supreme court system, and suggestions for improving the institution.

Review Quotes

?Fino analyzes the work of state supreme courts in the context of the new emphasis on states' rights. Providing both quantitative and qualitative data on judicial backgrounds, state supreme court decisions, and variations in decision-making from state to state, she develops measure for court performance based on judicial activism scores and reversal and dissent rates. She concludes by suggesting ways that state supreme courts can improve themselves and enhance their role within the national judicial system.?-American Bar Foundation Research Journal

"Fino analyzes the work of state supreme courts in the context of the new emphasis on states' rights. Providing both quantitative and qualitative data on judicial backgrounds, state supreme court decisions, and variations in decision-making from state to state, she develops measure for court performance based on judicial activism scores and reversal and dissent rates. She concludes by suggesting ways that state supreme courts can improve themselves and enhance their role within the national judicial system."-American Bar Foundation Research Journal

About the Author

SUSAN P. FINO is Assistant Professor of Political Science at Wayne State University.