The Perception of Justice Among Wrongfully Convicted Individuals: Life After Exoneration

Abstract

This study aims to explore the perceptions of justice among individuals who have been wrongfully convicted and later exonerated. Specifically, it seeks to understand the psychological, social, and financial impacts of wrongful convictions on exonerees and their views on the justice system post-exoneration. Employing a qualitative research design, this study conducted semi-structured interviews with 25 exonerees. The interviews aimed to gather in-depth insights into their experiences with the criminal justice system, life after exoneration, and their perceptions of justice and injustice. Theoretical saturation was reached, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the studied phenomena. The study identified five major themes: Perception of Justice, Impact of Wrongful Conviction, Legal System Interaction, Reintegration Challenges, and Support Systems. Within these themes, detailed categories emerged, such as Sense of Betrayal, Trust in Legal Institutions, Need for Vindication, Personal Identity, Family Dynamics, Social Stigma, Financial Struggles, Psychological Trauma, Legal Representation, Experience with Law Enforcement, Judicial Process, Employment Difficulties, Social Reintegration, Access to Services, Personal Relationships, Family and Friends, Community Organizations, Public Awareness, and Mental Health Support. These categories encapsulate the multifaceted impact of wrongful convictions, highlighting significant psychological distress, financial hardship, social stigma, and the critical role of support systems in exonerees' reintegration and recovery processes. The study underscores the profound and lasting effects of wrongful convictions on individuals, emphasizing the need for systemic reforms in the criminal justice system. It calls for improved legal representation, compensation mechanisms, and support services to address the challenges faced by exonerees. Additionally, the findings highlight the importance of societal recognition and support to mitigate the stigma and challenges associated with wrongful convictions.