The Role of Confirmation Bias in Criminal Proceedings: Insights from the Mór Bank Robbery

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study is to examine the role of confirmation bias in criminal proceedings, with particular focus on its manifestations in investigative, prosecutorial, and judicial decision-making, and to demonstrate how this cognitive bias may contribute to wrongful convictions.Methodology: The research adopts a doctrinal and interdisciplinary approach, integrating findings from criminal procedural law and cognitive psychology. The study is based on a review of relevant Hungarian and international literature, as well as the analysis of specific case studies.Findings: The analysis shows that confirmation bias may be present at all stages of criminal proceedings and often operates through self-reinforcing mechanisms that distort the evaluation of evidence. It contributes to the neglect of alternative hypotheses, the emergence of tunnel vision, and may escalate at a systemic level. Furthermore, the study finds that neither expert evidence nor the use of technological tools eliminates the risk of bias.Value: The study contributes to the academic discourse on the fairness of criminal proceedings by providing a systemic analysis of cognitive biases. Its findings support the development of procedural safeguards and methodological approaches aimed at mitigating distortions in decision-making.