Conspiracy: The Criminal Agreement in Theory and in Practice

Abstract

Professor Marcus combines empirical research and theoretical analysis in this comprehensive study of the conspiracy doctrine. The article shows that the theoretical reasons for the conspiracy doctrine are inapplicable to most actual conspiracy prosecutions and that the practical reasons for conspiracy charges are often unacceptable prosecutorial shortcuts. Although ultimately concluding that the conspiracy doctrine is needed in some limited instances, Professor Marcus indicates that prosecutors should bring conspiracy charges only when justified by proper reasons and that courts should consider such charges more carefully.

Keywords: conspiracy, doctrine, prosecution, court, and charge