[efx888]

Hi, I also posted this in the School Projects section, but I thought it would also fit here.
I'm doing some research for my comparative criminal justice class, and was hoping some of you could help me out a bit. The assignment is to make a fictional account of experiences with crime and the justice system of a country we're interested. I chose Russia, and have already found out a great deal. I know about the underpaid police imposing "fines" (vzyatka? SP?) and criminal organizations requiring business people to pay for their "protection."
Basically what I'm looking for is two things: the first would be interesting personal accounts of people's interactions with the police, or other elements of the justice system. Also, if anyone could provide me with some information about the process that one would go through if they were trying to advance a case through the legal system. For example, would there be an emphasis on settling a case outside the courtroom? Would there be any kind of trial or ruling on the case?
If you could provide any of this kind of information, it would be a huge help.

Thanks a lot!