Socioeconomic Disparities and Due Process Compliance in Disciplinary Procedures: An Educational Justice Perspective

Abstract

This study explores the impact of socioeconomic disparities on the observance of due process in disciplinary procedures for public officials in the Judicial District of Huancavelica, Peru, during the period 2017–2018. It addresses two central research questions: (1) which socioeconomic variables influence due process compliance, and (2) how these variables affect disciplinary outcomes. Employing a correlational-explanatory methodology, the analysis covered 74 disciplinary case records, evaluating aspects such as the right to a fair hearing, timely notification, opportunity for defense, and impartial adjudication. Statistical tools, including Spearman’s Rho and logistic regression, identified a significant positive correlation (r = 0.648, p = 0.00) between adherence to due process and favorable outcomes. Cases exhibiting high compliance (81–100%) with due process were found to have 3.42 times higher odds of resulting in favorable decisions compared to those with lower compliance. The study underscores the critical influence of socioeconomic factors—particularly income level and geographical accessibility—on procedural fairness. It concludes that enhanced institutional support and access to legal resources are vital to promoting equity and justice in administrative disciplinary actions.