Description:
<jats:p> The nature of judicial decision making in contemporary U.S. courts has increased the influence of statistical reasoning and professional statisticians. Statistical models proving or disproving prima face instances of discrimination in affirmative action litigation are an especially significant development in the past twenty years. Both public and private organizations must justify patterns of recruitment and hiring by assembling relevant data. </jats:p><jats:p> Focusing on litigation brought by the U. S. Department of Justice challenging the hiring practice of Fairfax County, Virginia, a large and affluent urban county in the Washington metropolitan area, the article shows how statistical reasoning affects judicial decision making. In addition, a number of management issues are raised: These include whether regional or jurisdictional approaches should guide service delivery; how local governments can best plan for possible litigation; and how court-ordered affirmative action plans impact personnel practices. </jats:p>