| This study examines the attitudes of public defenders (N = 63) towards legalization of drugs, harm reduction, morality of drug use, violation of rights, deterrent effect of penalties, and the perceived effects of legalization. The results are compared to a sample of university faculty (N = 51). University faculty are a segment of the general public and their attitudes can be taken as an indication of the attitudes of the general public. The data was collected using a questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, and regression analysis were used for data analysis. The attitudes of the public defenders are different from that of the faculty. Public defenders have a more permissive attitude toward drug issues when compared to the faculty. The media shapes public opinion but it has not publicized the opinions of the practitioners. The opinions of the practitioners and researchers should be better publicized, which can impact drug policy formulation. |
