Criminal Law
Criminal justice is administered primarily at the state and county level. The vast majority of incarcerated people in the United States are in county and state custody. Constitutional challenges in state courts usually focus on the rights of defendants and incarcerated people.
These cases can address criminal procedure and due process, search and seizure, the right to counsel and a jury trial, criminal jury rights, the right against self-incrimination, bail and excessive fees and fines, admissibility of evidence, sentencing, the death penalty, police misconduct, prison conditions, and habeas.
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The Latest Legal Challenge to Reform-Minded Prosecutors
Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court will consider whether state legislatures can remove a local law enforcement official.
Lack of Transparency in New York Courts Undermines Democracy
Long Waits for Trial in Virgin Islands Highlight Need for New Law — Or New Constitution
Colorado Supreme Court Upholds Controversial Google Keyword Warrant
Louisiana Supreme Court Makes It Harder to Reduce Unjust Sentences
Victims’ Rights Meet State Constitutions
Maryland Supreme Court Weighs Victims’ Rights in High-Profile Murder Case
Adnan Syed’s appeal raises questions about the scope of Maryland’s protections for victims’ rights.
Catching Up with State Courts