You are defending a client against a murder charge. You have consulted with your client and are making preparations for the upcoming trial. The judge rejects your motion to prevent the weapon from being used in the trial. She agreed that technically the warrant did not specifically include the area of the woodpile, but feels that the minor violation was not worth taking the chance that the prosecutor might end up losing the case. In her view, society is better served by allowing the weapon to be used as evidence than it would be if the defendant is allowed to go free. This decision represents which ethical belief?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The judge's decision is based on utilitarianism, which is an ethical theory that suggests the best action is the one that maximizes utility, usually defined as that which produces the greatest well-being of the greatest number of people. In this case, the judge believes society is better served by allowing the weapon as evidence, despite the technical violation, indicating a focus on the overall outcome rather than strict adherence to rules.

You Are Defending a Client Against a Murder Charge