Much of the media coverage and academic literature on Russia suggests that the justice system is unreliable, ineffective and corrupt. But what if we look beyond the stereotypes and preconceptions? This volume features contributions from a number of scholars who studied Russia empirically and in-depth, through extensive field research, observations in courts, and interviews with judges and other legal professionals as well as lay actors. A number of tensions in the everyday experiences of justice in Russia are identified and the concept of the 'administerial model of justice' is introduced to illuminate some of the less obvious layers of Russian legal tradition including: file-driven procedure, extreme legal formalism combined with informality of the pre-trial proceedings, followed by ritualistic format of the trial. The underlying argument is that Russian justice is a much more complex system than is commonly supposed, and that it both requires and deserves a more nuanced understanding.

‘A Sociology of Justice in Russia is the most analytically sophisticated and empirically rich volume ever produced on the everyday operation of the Russian legal system. While not ignoring the pathologies of Russian law that are widely covered in the Western press, this work highlights the ways in which ordinary Russian citizens seek - and often find - justice in their legal institutions. A Sociology of Justice in Russia is an essential read for all students of comparative law.’

Eugene Huskey - William R. Kenan, Jr, Professor of Political Science, Stetson University, Florida

‘Based on solid empirical research, this valuable collection offers many insights into contemporary Russian legal culture and its continuing lack of institutional and professional autonomy. As case studies in different Russian courts suggest, it is what the editors call 'administerial justice' that is available for matters such as human trafficking, migration cases, defamation and criminal law. Despite the difficulties, Russian citizens increasingly seek to find ways to obtain justice through legal means.’

David Nelken - King’s College London

‘Rooted in an analysis which carefully considers a mixture of historical, social and political factors, this book provides a nuanced understanding of legal developments in post-Soviet Russia.’

Paul Chaisty - University of Oxford

‘In conclusion, this excellent collection demonstrates … that adherence to the ‘Western rule of law yardstick’ seems to offer the best route to improving justice systems not only in the West, but also in Russia.’

Simon Cosgrove Source: Europe-Asia Studies