Just Mercy Study Guide Flashcards

Questions and Answers

How does Stevenson get close to the incarcerated people he is helping?

Stevenson engages directly with the incarcerated individuals, building relationships and understanding their experiences by listening to their stories and advocating for their rights.

What toll does 'getting close' take on Stevenson?

It often leads to emotional and psychological burdens, causing stress and anguish as he confronts the systemic injustices faced by the incarcerated individuals.

How does getting close to Walter McMillian affect Stevenson's life?

It profoundly impacts Stevenson's perspective on justice, leading him to confront racial inequalities and pushing him to become more dedicated to fighting for change.

How does 'getting close' relate to Catholic values?

It relates to the principles of compassion, service to the marginalized, and a commitment to justice inherent in Catholic teachings. Signup and view all the answers

What does Stevenson mean by 'the opposite of poverty is justice'?

He argues that true justice addresses the root causes of poverty and inequality rather than merely providing wealth. Signup and view all the answers

What examples in the book inform Stevenson's position on poverty and its relationship to justice?

Examples include the stories of individuals wrongfully imprisoned due to systemic bias and economic disadvantage, illustrating how justice is essential for combating poverty. Signup and view all the answers

How did Stevenson's background prepare him for law school?

Because he came from a white family who was rich and allowed him to go to law school. Signup and view all the answers

What famous novel was written in Monroe County, AL, and how is it relevant to Just Mercy?

To Kill a Mockingbird, it is relevant to Just Mercy because they are both about an innocent black man who is defended by a white lawyer. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways did the Alabama government contribute to the economic difficulties of the state's African American population?

The State of Alabama agreed to help white landowners transition to timber farming, leading to loss of jobs for African Americans and poverty. Signup and view all the answers

Describe Stevenson's own interaction with the police in Atlanta and how that affects him personally and professionally.

Stevenson was confused and startled; he assured himself and stayed calm by repeating it is okay. It affected him personally as neighbors thought he was a burglar. Signup and view all the answers

What other issues within the law enforcement infrastructure and society do the three episodes with the police reveal?

It reveals that the police are not doing a great job of ensuring safety and lack a close relationship with the community. Signup and view all the answers

Be able to detail what happened to Walter McMillian that landed him on death row before his conviction.

Walter McMillian was arrested on pretextual charges for a crime he did not commit based on Ralph Myers' allegations. Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of the 1986 Batson v. Kentucky ruling?

The importance of the case was that prosecutors could be challenged more directly about using peremptory strikes; it gave hope to black defendants. Signup and view all the answers

Why was the trial moved?

The trial was moved to Baldwin County because it had an African American population of just 9 percent. Signup and view all the answers

Who were some of Walter McMillian's most important allies and what evidence was there in support of McMillian's innocence?

His allies included a police officer, his sister Evelyn Smith, black church pastors, and friend Jimmy Hunter. He was at home frying fish and fixing his car. Signup and view all the answers

In your opinion, who or what is to blame for Walter's conviction?

Ralph Myers, the furniture man, Officer Tate, and especially the judge for changing the venue to a 91 percent white population county. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Stevenson spend so long telling McMillian's story and what effect does it have on him?

Stevenson details the case for full understanding; he feels the burden of proving McMillian's innocence. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the 1982 Supreme Court ruling related to death penalty appeals and its impact across the country.

The ruling led to more aggressive executions of condemned prisoners, doubling the number executed in Alabama by the end of 1989. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Alabama's capital statute requiring intentional murder relevant in Duncan's case?

It is relevant because Herbert had no intent to kill; he argued it was reckless murder, which is not capital murder. Signup and view all the answers

Duncan Richardson was a U.S. war veteran who suffered mental trauma. How should that be factored into his defense?

His court-appointed attorney did not bring it up at the trial. Signup and view all the answers

What does Stevenson report about the lives of the prison staff and how they treated Duncan Richardson?

Prison staff wanted everything to run according to plan; they asked Duncan how to help on execution day. Signup and view all the answers

What does Stevenson note about the statistics of veterans in prison?

Thousands of combat veterans end up in jail or prison after military service; nearly 20 percent in jails and prisons served in the military. Signup and view all the answers

What is the origin of the chapter's name 'Of the Coming of John'?

It comes from a brilliant but haunting short story written by W.E.B. Du Bois. Signup and view all the answers

How is the relationship between Stevenson and Walter changing?

They are becoming closer and enjoying a friendship; Stevenson cites the importance of discussing normal life. Signup and view all the answers

Why does it annoy Stevenson that To Kill a Mockingbird is a source of pride in Monroeville?

It annoys him because it is a fictional story and he knows such fairness is rarely seen in real life. Signup and view all the answers

How would you characterize Stevenson's mood at the end of this chapter?

Stevenson's mood is angry, annoyed, scared, and nervous about Mr. McMillian's future. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Charlie in jail in the first place?

Charlie is in jail because he killed his mom's boyfriend who hit his mother, causing her to bleed excessively. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways has the system failed to protect Charlie, both before and after his incarceration?

He was tried as an adult for capital punishment, showing a failure to consider his age and circumstances. Signup and view all the answers

What special circumstances of the murder victim lead to greater struggles for Charlie?

The victim was a local police officer, which leads to societal backlash against Charlie. Signup and view all the answers

What evidence do Stevenson and O'Connor discover as they prepare the appeal?

Proof that eyewitness Bill Hooks was paid by the sheriff; Hooks' expenses were covered and his prior claims were false. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Myers have a change of heart?

Myers, pressured by the sheriff, decided to tell the truth about being coerced into testifying. Signup and view all the answers

How does the race of the victim come into decisions about sentencing?

The case of McCleskey v. Kemp revealed that the race of the victim is the greatest predictor of who receives the death penalty. Signup and view all the answers

What are the backgrounds, cases, and sentences for Trina, Ian, and Antonio?

They were all abused, poor, and became homeless; sentenced under the age of 16. Signup and view all the answers

Once sentenced to life as minors, how do the three endure abuse within the prison system?

They endure abuse because they are young and often cannot advocate for themselves. Signup and view all the answers

What happened with Avery Jenkins and how was his mental illness treated?

Avery had a mental illness involving seizures; initially, nobody believed he was truly ill. Signup and view all the answers

What does Stevenson say about the treatment of those with physical versus mental disabilities?

Treatment for physical disabilities is proper, while those with mental disabilities often receive disrespectful treatment. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Dorothea Dix and why is she important to this chapter?

She campaigned to get the mentally ill out of prison for appropriate treatment. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'mitigation' mean in the legal context?

Mitigation in law is the principle that a party must take reasonable actions to minimize loss. Signup and view all the answers

What role does the 60 Minutes episode on Walter play in the reinvestigation of his case?

The episode portrayed the prosecution negatively, prompting a reinvestigation by the Alabama Bureau of Investigation. Signup and view all the answers

What one thing do people in difficult situations need, according to Vaclav Havel?

Hope or hopefulness. Signup and view all the answers

Did Walter finally achieve justice?

He is released from jail but suffered for many years; his life will never be the same. Signup and view all the answers

Who was the most guilty of wrongdoing in Martha's case?

The medical examiner who claimed the baby was born alive when it was not. Signup and view all the answers

Do you think the verdict would have been different if the accused was the father of the infant?

Yes, people wanted to punish the mother, and being poor did not garner much sympathy. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways are female inmates more at risk than male inmates?

They are at risk for sexual abuse by prison guards. Signup and view all the answers

Why are the rates for imprisonment of men different from imprisonment of women?

The rate for women dramatically increased from 1980 to 2000; most women are poor. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Stevenson want to encourage news stories about Walter being released?

He wants to get Walter recognized as a free man wrongfully imprisoned. Signup and view all the answers

Should wrongfully imprisoned people receive financial restitution from the state?

Yes, they should receive restitution; the amount should be determined by the judge or jury. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Joe Sullivan, and what happened to him?

Joe Sullivan was a thirteen-year-old boy wrongly accused of rape and sentenced to life in prison without parole. Signup and view all the answers

What does Stevenson intend to use the Eighth Amendment for in defending Joe Sullivan?

He plans to use it against cruel and unusual punishment for someone who did not commit the crime. Signup and view all the answers

How many other countries in the world sentence minors to life in prison?

The United States is the only country in the world that sentences minors to life in prison. Signup and view all the answers

What two subsets of children serving life sentences does Stevenson focus on?

Poor white people and poor black people. Signup and view all the answers

What does Stevenson say makes mercy just and powerful?

Mercy is most empowering, liberating, and transformative when directed at the undeserving. Signup and view all the answers

Discuss the ways in which the system failed Jimmy Dill.

Jimmy was intellectually disabled and should not have been put to death; poverty led to inadequate defense. Signup and view all the answers

What happens to Walter and how is he judged at the nursing facility?

Walter becomes troubled, starts drinking excessively, diagnosed with dementia and judged negatively as a felon. Signup and view all the answers

To whom does the title 'Broken' refer?

Walter, as his health and mental state decline and he loses his life. Signup and view all the answers

What effect did the events of September 11 have on the fight to appeal the death penalty?

It made it harder to appeal the death penalty. Signup and view all the answers

What is the meaning of stonecatcher?

Someone who does not throw stones but instead listens and helps people. Signup and view all the answers

What are the four institutions in American history that have shaped our approach to race and justice?

<ol> <li>Slavery 2. Racial Terrorism 3. Jim Crow laws 4. Mass incarceration.</li> </ol> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Stevenson's Background and Law School Preparation

Stevenson came from a wealthy white family, which provided him opportunities for legal education.

Relevance of "To Kill a Mockingbird"

"To Kill a Mockingbird," written in Monroe County, AL, parallels "Just Mercy" in depicting a white lawyer defending an innocent black man.

Economic Hardships for African Americans in Alabama

The Alabama government supported white landowners transitioning to timber farming, resulting in job losses and increased poverty for African Americans.

Stevenson's Personal Experiences with Law Enforcement

Confused by police interaction in Atlanta, Stevenson felt misunderstood when neighbors suspected him of being a burglar, prompting him to seek accountability from the police department.

Law Enforcement Issues Highlighted

Episodes with police reveal distrust in law enforcement and a lack of strong community relations, contributing to a general sense of insecurity in society.

Walter McMillian's Arrest and Death Row Situation

McMillian was wrongfully arrested based on coerced allegations from Ralph Myers, leading to his conviction on sodomy charges despite having no intent to harm.

Significance of Batson v. Kentucky

The 1986 ruling allowed challenges against prosecutors for discriminatory jury selection practices, fostering hope for black defendants.

Venue Change in McMillian's Trial

McMillian's trial moved to Baldwin County, with a predominantly white population, raising concerns about jury bias.

Key Allies of Walter McMillian

Important allies included police officer, his sister Evelyn Smith, black church pastors, and friend Jimmy Hunter who provided alibi evidence.

Responsibility for McMillian's Conviction

Multiple parties contributed, including Ralph Myers, Officer Tate, and a biased judge who altered the trial venue to favor a white jury.

Importance of Detailing McMillian's Case

Stevenson's extensive narration of McMillian's case emphasizes the fight against wrongful conviction and highlights the personal stakes involved.

Supreme Court Ruling on Death Penalty Appeals

In 1982, rulings shifted to aggressively pursue executions, doubling the number of executions in Alabama by the end of the decade.

Relevance of Intent in Murder Charges

Alabama law requires intent for death penalty eligibility; relevant in Herbert's case where he lacked intent in a tragic death.

Duncan Richardson's Mental Health Issues

Richardson's war-related trauma was not considered in his defense due to his attorney's negligence during the trial.

Treatment of Prison Staff towards Duncan Richardson

Prison staff focused on procedure rather than compassion, with their demeanor changing significantly on execution day.

Statistics on Veterans in Prison

Nearly 20% of incarcerated individuals have military backgrounds, highlighting a concerning trend of veterans ending up behind bars.

Origin of Chapter Title

"Of the Coming of John" is derived from a notable W.E.B. Du Bois short story, contextualizing themes of race and justice.

Changing Relationship Between Stevenson and McMillian

A bond develops through consistent visits, creating normalcy amidst the weight of legal battles, showcasing the importance of human connection.

Critique of Monroeville's Pride in "To Kill a Mockingbird"

Stevenson expresses frustration that a fictional narrative is lauded while real-life injustices persist, underscoring societal hypocrisy.

Stevenson's Emotional State at Chapter's End

Stevenson experiences anger and fear regarding McMillian's future, compounded by frustrations with the legal system.

Charlie's Incarceration Circumstances

Charlie killed his mother's abuser in self-defense, revealing a tragic context to his legal troubles at a young age.

Systematic Failures Impacting Charlie

Charlie was treated as an adult, facing severe consequences reflective of a flawed justice system lacking in protective measures for children.

Struggles for Charlie Post-Incarceration

The police officer's status as a victim complicates Charlie's case, reflecting systemic bias against juvenile offenders.

Evidence Discovered During McMillian's Appeal

Key discoveries included bribery of eyewitnesses, false testimonies, and corroboration of McMillian's alibi, bolstering claims of his innocence.

Ralph Myers' Change of Heart

Myers recanted under pressure, revealing his prior false testimony was coerced; Stevenson's skepticism of his honesty reflects the frailty of trust in such cases.

Racial Disparities in Sentencing

McCleskey v. Kemp illustrates how victim race influences death penalty sentences, with white victims more frequently resulting in harsher penalties.

Background of Trina, Ian, and Antonio

These individuals' upbringing in abusive and impoverished environments led to their troubled paths, culminating in severe sentences.

Challenges Faced by Minors in Prison

Young inmates are at high risk of exploitation and abuse, highlighting systemic failures in protecting vulnerable populations.

Avery Jenkins and Mental Health Evidence

During his trial, evidence of Jenkins' mental illness was initially dismissed; Stevenson's advocacy later highlighted the need for proper treatment.

Treatment of Physical vs. Mental Disabilities

Society often overlooks the needs of those with mental disabilities, leading to inadequate support and lack of respect within the legal system.

Dorothea Dix’s Advocacy

Dix campaigned for the rights and treatment of the mentally ill, emphasizing the need for societal compassion and reform.

Definition of Mitigation in Legal Context

Mitigation aims to reduce the severity of consequences for wrongdoings, urging fairness in addressing the circumstances of a case.

Impact of 60 Minutes Episode on Walter’s Case

Media attention prompted a reassessment of McMillian's trial, leading to a reinvestigation by the Alabama Bureau of Investigation.

Role of Hope in Rehabilitation

Vaclav Havel emphasized the necessity of hope in difficult times; this concept helped Walter’s family sustain their spirits amidst adversity.

Walter's Journey to Justice

While McMillian gained freedom, the scars of his wrongful imprisonment remained, highlighting enduring injustices.

Martha's Case and Responsibility

The medical examiner’s false declaration of live birth played a crucial role in the miscarried justice of Martha’s case.

Hypothetical Different Verdicts

A more sympathetic perception of Marsha’s circumstances, had she been wealthy or if the father were accused, likely would have altered the case's outcome.

Risks Faced by Female Inmates

Female inmates are more susceptible to sexual abuse from guards, raising concerns about gendered violence in the prison system.

Discrepancies in Imprisonment Rates

The dramatic rise in female incarceration is linked to socio-economic issues, with many women being impoverished.

Stevenson's Advocacy for Walter’s Release

He promotes media recognition of Walter's innocence to highlight the failings of the justice system.

Financial Restitution for Wrongfully Imprisoned

Wrongfully convicted individuals should receive compensation for their wrongful incarceration; restitution amounts should reflect the severity of the injustice.

Joe Sullivan's Case

Joe, a 13-year-old wrongly convicted of a crime he did not commit, faced life imprisonment while also dealing with significant social and legal biases.

Disturbing Observations at a Ceremony

Stevenson reacts sensitively to seeing individuals broken by the legal system, highlighting the emotional toll of his work.

Eighth Amendment Applications

The Eighth Amendment prohibits cruel and unusual punishment, which Stevenson intends to leverage in defending Joe Sullivan’s case.

Global Context of Juvenile Sentencing

The U.S. is the sole country allowing life sentences for minors, raising ethical concerns regarding juvenile justice.

Stevenson focuses on poor black and white youth, revealing systemic inequities reinforcing cycles of poverty and punishment.

Definition of Empowering Mercy

Stevenson views mercy as transformative when extended to those deemed undeserving, emphasizing the importance of compassion.

Systemic Failures in Jimmy Dill's Case

Dill, who faced execution despite intellectual disabilities, exemplifies injustices suffered due to inadequate legal representation.

Walter's Post-Release Struggles

After his release, McMillian battles with health issues and societal judgment, further complicating his reintegration into society.

"Broken" as a Metaphor

The title refers to Walter's deteriorating mental and physical state post-incarceration, symbolizing lost potential and societal failures.

Effects of September 11 on Death Penalty Appeals

The events heightened scrutiny and increased challenges in contesting death penalty cases amid national security concerns.

Concept of a Stonecatcher

A stonecatcher exemplifies empathy and support; Stevenson identifies himself and figures like Christ as embodying this role.

Institutions Shaping Race and Justice

Key historical influences include slavery, racial terrorism, Jim Crow laws, and mass incarceration, reflecting ongoing systemic issues.

Proposed EJI Re-entry Program

Programs should cater to individual needs post-incarceration, adjusting to the varying circumstances of different age groups.

Commonality of Wrongful Convictions in Children

Juvenile legal systems often fail to protect young offenders, leading to frequent instances of wrongful convictions and inadequate representation.

Reflective Quote on Capital Punishment

The quote prompts ethical questions surrounding the justification of the death penalty and society's stance on justice and mercy.

Stevenson's Relationship with the Incarcerated

Personal connections with incarcerated individuals deepen Stevenson's understanding of their struggles while imposing emotional burdens on him.

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Description

This set of flashcards covers key concepts and themes from the book 'Just Mercy' by Bryan Stevenson. It explores Stevenson's background, the relevance of 'To Kill a Mockingbird', and more. Perfect for anyone studying the book or preparing for discussions and exams.