Our Areas of Focus

The Penal Lexicon conducts in-depth research on a variety of critical topics related to prisons, criminal justice systems, and penal policies.

Our Guiding Principle

Criminal Defence Law in the Context of Prison Litigation

We examine the role of criminal defence lawyers in representing prisoners who are challenging their convictions or seeking redress for violations of their rights within correctional facilities.

Business and Commercial Law in Prison Industries

We analyze the legal and ethical considerations surrounding prison industries, including contracts, labor practices, and the regulation of business activities within correctional facilities.

Building and Construction Law in Prison Maintenance

We research the legal and regulatory aspects of building and construction in the context of prison maintenance, repair, and renovation. We explore the legal framework for ensuring safe and appropriate living conditions within correctional facilities.

International Estate Planning in the Context of Criminal Justice

We research the complexities of estate planning when criminal justice issues are involved. This can include matters such as asset forfeiture, inheritance, and the impact of incarceration on inheritance rights.

Property and Real Estate Law in the Context of Prison Construction

We analyze the legal and regulatory frameworks surrounding the construction and development of correctional facilities, including property rights, zoning, environmental impact, and building codes.

Property Conveyancing and Prison Construction

We research the legal and regulatory framework surrounding the acquisition, transfer, and development of property for prison construction, including land use regulations, environmental impact assessments, and the rights of local communities.

Civil Litigation and Disputes Involving Correctional Facilities

We analyze the legal framework surrounding civil litigation and disputes that may arise in the context of correctional facilities. This includes matters such as prisoner lawsuits, employment claims, and property disputes.

Traffic Law and its Impact on Incarceration

We research how traffic law enforcement and the resulting criminal justice system involvement can contribute to mass incarceration, particularly for marginalized communities. We also explore the effectiveness of alternative strategies for addressing traffic violations.

Mergers and Acquisitions of Correctional Facilities

We analyze the legal and financial aspects of mergers and acquisitions of correctional facilities, including the impact on privatization, prison labor, and prisoner rights.

Why The Penal Lexicon

Rigorous Research. Thoughtful Analysis.

The Penal Lexicon is driven by a commitment to rigorous scholarship and a deep understanding of the complex issues surrounding the criminal justice system. We strive to produce high-quality research that is both insightful and impactful.

Experienced Researchers

Our team of researchers brings together diverse expertise and perspectives to provide a comprehensive view of the penal landscape.

Credibility and Integrity

Our research is grounded in rigorous methodologies and ethical standards, ensuring the highest level of credibility and reliability.

Dedicated to Transparency

We are committed to making our research findings accessible to a broad audience, encouraging open dialogue and informed decision-making.

Support for Policy Development

We strive to inform policy debates and contribute to a more just and equitable criminal justice system through our research findings and analysis.

Our Approach

Disseminating Knowledge

The Penal Lexicon seeks to disseminate our research findings through publications, presentations, and collaborations. Our goal is to ensure that our knowledge reaches those who need it most.

  • Conducting Research

    Our research process involves a combination of quantitative and qualitative methodologies, drawing upon a variety of data sources and analysis techniques.

  • Analyzing Data

    We rigorously analyze data to uncover patterns, trends, and insights that inform our understanding of the criminal justice system.

  • Communicating Findings

    We communicate our research findings through a variety of channels, including publications, conferences, and public outreach programs.

Get in Touch

If you are interested in learning more about our research or potential collaborations, please feel free to contact us.

Feedback and Recognition

Research Impact

"The Penal Lexicon’s dedication to providing accessible and evidence-based research is truly commendable. Their work has been a valuable resource for my own research and has helped to inform my understanding of key issues in criminal justice."

Gary Demaneur Policy Analyst

"I am consistently impressed by the high quality and thoughtfulness of The Penal Lexicon’s research. Their work has provided crucial insights that have informed my policy recommendations and advocacy efforts."

Zachary Kagan
Zachary Kagan Professor of Criminology

"The Penal Lexicon's research has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of the complexities of the criminal justice system. Their work is both rigorous and insightful, providing valuable insights that are essential for informed decision-making."

Jason Chidiac
Jason Chidiac Researcher