Practical guidance for navigating issues associated with combining mixed methods and case study research approaches is in short supply, particularly for novice researchers who may grapple with numerous decision points in planning and conducting such studies. This methodological discussion examines the decision-making process used in a qualitatively driven mixed methods dissertation study with a focus on how mixed methods and case study research approaches can be applied together to enhance case descriptions and interpretations. This discussion contributes to the field of mixed methods research methodology by expanding conversations about the inherent messiness of mixed methods research and by providing practical guidance to researchers interested in applying a mixed methods case study approach.
This article presents a qualitative research approach to exploring attorney-client communication in an urban public defense system. The study drew upon procedural justice theory [PJT], which emphasizes relationships between satisfaction with system procedures and compliance with system demands. Interpretive analysis of interview data from 22 public defense clients revealed four major themes. PJT accounted well for three themes of communication time, type, and content, highlighting relationships between prompt, iterative, complete communication and client satisfaction. The fourth theme involved clients exercising agency, often due to dissatisfaction with attorney communication. This theme was better accommodated by legal consciousness theory, which emphasizes that diverse experiences with law include manipulation and opposition alongside compliance. Implications for policy and research are discussed.
AbstractThis article presents a qualitative research approach to exploring attorney-client communication in an urban public defense system. The study drew upon procedural justice theory [PJT], which emphasizes relationships between satisfaction with system procedures and compliance with system demands. Interpretive analysis of interview data from 22 public defense clients revealed four major themes. PJT accounted well for three themes of communication time, type, and content, highlighting relationships between prompt, iterative, complete communication and client satisfaction. The fourth theme involved clients exercising agency, often due to dissatisfaction with attorney communication. This theme was better accommodated by legal consciousness theory, which emphasizes that diverse experiences with law include manipulation and opposition alongside compliance. Implications for policy and research are discussed.
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