Held that life without parole sentences are unconstitutional as applied to emerging adults (ages 18–20)
At oral arguments over the constitutionality of mandatory life-without-parole sentences for young adults, several justices suggested the right to be free from “cruel or unusual” punishments might be fundamental.
The court has perhaps never been friendlier to criminal justice reform.
A Massachusetts state court was the first to uphold the right to same-sex marriage on constitutional grounds.
A man sentenced to life in prison at 18 years old explains why state laws that funnel kids into the adult system are unjust and short-sighted.
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At oral arguments over the constitutionality of mandatory life-without-parole sentences for young adults, several justices suggested the right to be free from “cruel or unusual” punishments might be fundamental.
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The Massachusetts Constitution: the Oldest in the United States, and Often Ahead of its Time
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Protecting Youth in the Criminal Justice System
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