The rules governing capital punishment in the U.S. are not set in stone. This has been made clear by the recent Supreme Court ruling on the unique circumstances of Florida law regarding capital punishment cases. The laws pertaining to these cases vary from state to state, yet many experts regard Florida’s law in particular as unique. The recent ruling now hands more of the responsibility back to the jury in capital cases, and less of the decision-making fate left solely in the hands of the judges.
Supreme Court Rules 8 to 1
The Supreme Court ruled 8 to 1 in favor of striking down the current Florida law regarding the state’s death penalty system. The finding was that the law gave too much power to judges—who are responsible for making the final decision in capital cases—and not enough power to juries.
Impact on Current and Past Florida Capital Cases
It’s clear that this ruling will have a major impact on cases in Florida, where 390 inmates now stand on death row. While not all of the cases will qualify for appeal, the decision is likely to have an impact on many capital cases that are not yet final. In any case, the decision certainly sheds a new light on many cases. With the death penalty law in Florida having been ruled as unconstitutional, there is a certain feeling of chaos in the air and many Florida cases will be in need of legal help.
Laporte, Mulligan & Werner-Watkins Is Here to Help
If you or someone in your life is involved with a capital punishment case, know that help is out there. The expert legal team at Laporte, Mulligan & Werner-Watkins is available to counsel anyone in need of representation or advice regarding issues in a serious criminal case. If expertise in a serious legal matter is needed, don’t delay. Call the experts at Laporte, Mulligan & Werner-Watkins, P.A. today.