Prerequisites: RCC*. This course will explore the evolution of sentencing systems in the United States since 1787, culminating in the determinate systems adopted in recent years by the State of Ohio and the U.S. Congress and Federal Sentencing Commission. These will be contrasted with the indeterminate systems that were previously employed. The uncertainty created by the Supreme Court’s recent decision in Blakely v Washington will be a significant topic of discussion. Particular attention will be devoted to the allocation of power and discretion, the role of plea bargaining, the role of appellate review, the impact of mandatory minimum sentences, and issues of race. Offered infrequently.