Law School Prep & Racial Injustice Themes

Questions and Answers

What do you think is the best way to treat minors and youths caught up in the justice system?

Put them through therapy and not in jail.

How does poverty reinforce the prejudice built into these systems, according to Stevenson?

What happens in court on the first day of the Rule 32 trial?

Myers explains he was pressured by the police to lie.

What happens to the court gallery on the second day?

The court gallery was altered with a metal detector and police dogs. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Mrs. Williams not show up on the second day?

She leaves early due to traumatic memories from 1965. Signup and view all the answers

What evidence presented at the trial is most powerful to you?

The evidence about the low rider and false testimonies. Signup and view all the answers

What is the State's response to Stevenson's case?

They are shocked and scared. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the statistics Stevenson presents about mental illness and incarceration?

More than 50 percent of inmates have a diagnosed mental illness. Signup and view all the answers

What happened with Avery Jenkins?

He had a mental illness and was wrongly imprisoned. Signup and view all the answers

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

They are not treated with respect. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Dorothea Dix?

A campaigner for the mentally ill. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'mitigation' mean in the legal context?

The principle of minimizing loss. Signup and view all the answers

What is the court's ruling in the Rule 32 trial?

The ruling is unfavorable to Walter McMillian. Signup and view all the answers

Why was Stevenson hopeful for relief despite the ruling?

Because he believed in the potential for justice. Signup and view all the answers

What role does the 60 Minutes episode on Walter have on the case?

It raises awareness and prompts reinvestigation. Signup and view all the answers

What findings did the ABI present in the new investigation?

The evidence about the low rider was false. Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of hope, according to Stevenson?

Hope is vital for justice. Signup and view all the answers

What toll does Walter's case take on his family?

They suffer psychological and emotional distress. Signup and view all the answers

Was justice finally served to Walter?

It represents a miscarriage of justice. Signup and view all the answers

Describe Marsha's life before she gave birth.

She was a poor white woman with low wages. Signup and view all the answers

Who is the most guilty of wrongdoing in Marsha's case?

The father for not providing prenatal care. Signup and view all the answers

What Alabama law put so many poor young women at risk of prosecution?

The law making it a felony to expose a child to a dangerous environment. Signup and view all the answers

What are some secondary consequences of the imprisonment of poor women?

Increased vulnerability and less access to support. Signup and view all the answers

How is Stevenson able to help Marsha?

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How are women like Marsha affected by laws that keep them in cycles of poverty?

They are stripped of public benefits after convictions. Signup and view all the answers

What impact does the conservative majority in Congress have on Stevenson's work?

It leads to closures of capital punishment centers. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Stevenson travel to Sweden?

To accept the Olaf Palme International Human Rights Award. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Joe Sullivan, and what happened to him?

He was a boy wrongly accused of rape and sentenced to life in prison. Signup and view all the answers

What is the 'prison industrial complex'?

It is the business interests in prison construction. Signup and view all the answers

What is the eighth amendment to the US Constitution?

It prohibits cruel and unusual punishment. Signup and view all the answers

What decisions did the US Supreme Court make in 2002 regarding the capital punishment of those with mental disabilities?

The Supreme Court banned the death penalty for such individuals. Signup and view all the answers

How many other countries sentence minors to life in prison?

The United States is the only country that does. Signup and view all the answers

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

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

Who gave Stevenson's U.S. Supreme Court case public support?

Senator Simpson. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Stevenson starting to feel overwhelmed by 2009?

Due to the numerous cases he is handling. Signup and view all the answers

What happens to Walter?

He is diagnosed with dementia. Signup and view all the answers

What trend is the US experiencing in capital punishment sentenced rates?

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What does Stevenson argue before the Supreme Court in 2005 regarding methods of execution?

He raises questions about their constitutionality. Signup and view all the answers

What is the irony in states breaking laws to access drugs for lethal injection?

They acquired drugs illegally from overseas. Signup and view all the answers

What is Stevenson's conclusion about justice and mercy?

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What would Stevenson say about defining justice purely as punishment for wrongdoers?

He would disagree with that definition. 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 and forest products while small cotton farming became less profitable. Signup and view all the answers

Why was Ralph Myers considered to be so trustworthy by the Monroe County police department?

Because he was a white lawyer. Signup and view all the answers

What two cases involving the Gadsden police does Stevenson detail? What do the two cases have in common?

One case is about Mr. Ruffin, a black male who died after being arrested for traffic violations. The other case involves a black teenager who was shot after a minor traffic stop. Signup and view all the answers

Which recent news stories parallel the cases in Gadsden?

The Baltimore Riots following the death of Freddie Gray parallel the cases in Gadsden as they both highlight unjust events that led to public outrage. 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, fearing he was mistaken for a burglar, which affected his perception of police and motivated him to seek accountability. Signup and view all the answers

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

The police are not effectively ensuring safety and maintain a distant relationship with the community. Signup and view all the answers

How did the senior citizen attending Stevenson's church lecture earn his 'medals of honor'?

He earned them from scars related to efforts for civil rights. 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 based on false allegations by Ralph Myers and charged with a crime he did not commit. Signup and view all the answers

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

It allowed prosecutors to be challenged about using peremptory strikes, giving 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? What evidence was there in support of McMillian's innocence?

His allies included a police officer, his sister, black church pastors, and his friend Jimmy Hunter. 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 most to blame is the judge who changed the venue. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Stevenson spend so long telling McMillian's story?

He wants to provide a full understanding of what really happened and prove McMillian's innocence. Signup and view all the answers

Who was Herbert Duncan, and what did he experience prior to his arrest, trial, and sentencing?

Herbert Duncan was a Vietnam War veteran who suffered from PTSD. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the 1989 Supreme Court ruling related to death penalty appeals. What impact did that have across the country?

The ruling led to an increase in the Attorney General's forceful pursuit of executions. Signup and view all the answers

When do judge overrides increase and for what reason?

Judge overrides increased during death sentences because they were rare. Signup and view all the answers

Define the 2002 Supreme Court case of Atkins v. Virginia.

The Court recognized that executing people with intellectual disabilities is cruel and unusual punishment. Signup and view all the answers

Alabama's capital statute requires that murder be intentional for a defendant to be eligible for the death penalty. Why is this relevant in Duncan's case?

It is relevant because Duncan had no intent to kill the child, arguing for reckless murder instead. Signup and view all the answers

Duncan was a U.S. war veteran who suffered tremendous mental trauma while serving our nation. How should that be factored into his defense?

This factor should be considered in evaluating his actions and state of mind. Signup and view all the answers

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

Stevenson observed that prison staff were nervous on execution day and treated Duncan with unexpected kindness. Signup and view all the answers

How did Duncan's execution affect Stevenson and the others at the clinic?

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

Thousands of combat veterans end up in jail or prison after their military service. Signup and view all the answers

What flaws in both the justice system and the veterans' services system does this chapter highlight?

Flaws include the disregard for veterans' sacrifices and the overriding of jury decisions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the origin of this chapter's name?

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

Why is Walter's family convinced he will be exonerated? How do they treat Stevenson?

They believe in Stevenson’s abilities and treat him with respect and kindness, welcoming him into their family. Signup and view all the answers

How is the relationship between Stevenson and Walter changing?

They are becoming closer and developing a friendship. Signup and view all the answers

What evidence does Darnell Houston provide, and how does trying to help Walter McMillian put him in a quandary?

He exposes the lies of the critical witness, highlighting that he was working during the time of the murder. Signup and view all the answers

Even with the new evidence, what happens at the appeal for a new trial?

The appeal gets denied because it's not clear enough. Signup and view all the answers

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

It annoys him because it is a fictional story that doesn't reflect real-life justice. 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. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Charlie in jail in the first place?

Charlie is in jail because he killed his mother’s boyfriend in defense of her. Signup and view all the answers

What is happening to Charlie while he is in jail? Why is he not in a juvenile detention center?

He has been sexually abused and is not in a juvenile center because he is considered an adult for the case. 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 and placed in an environment that exacerbated his vulnerabilities. Signup and view all the answers

What special circumstances of the murder victim lead to greater struggles for Charlie? Does this seem fair?

The victim was a police officer, which intensified public scrutiny and bias against Charlie. Signup and view all the answers

How does Stevenson finally convince Charlie to speak with him?

He puts his arm around Charlie, which helps to ease his anxiety. Signup and view all the answers

Who are Mr. and Mrs. Jennings, and what do they do for Charlie?

They are a couple who helped Charlie by sending letters and supporting his education in detention. Signup and view all the answers

What are the death penalty laws for juveniles? What does Stevenson think about these laws?

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What evidence and arguments does Stevenson present on appeal for Walter McMillian?

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

They find multiple instances of false testimony and procedural injustices. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Myers have a change of heart? What new information does he want to offer, and why does Stevenson not trust him?

Myers changes his story after therapy, but Stevenson is wary due to his history of lying. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Stevenson investigate both the Morrison and Pittman murders, and what does he discover?

He investigates both as Myers testified in both cases, discovering corruption in the sheriff's actions. Signup and view all the answers

What does Payne vs. Tennessee allow for?

It allows for states to present victim personality evidence during capital sentencing trials. Signup and view all the answers

What does McKlesky vs. Kemp reveal? How does the race of the victim come into decisions about sentencing?

It reveals that the race of the victim significantly impacts who receives the death penalty. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Stevenson not have access to police files and records in Walter's case? How does he get them?

He didn't have access because the case was on direct appeal, but he obtained them through Rule 32. Signup and view all the answers

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

They were 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 each of the three endure abuse within the prison system?

They endure abuse because they are young and vulnerable. Signup and view all the answers

How is it that Antonio was sentenced to life in prison despite being a minor in California?

There is no minimum age for kidnapping in California, leading to his severe sentence. Signup and view all the answers

What correlation does Stevenson reveal between incarcerated youth and race?

Most incarcerated youth are predominantly black or Latino. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Law School Preparation and Literary Connections

Stevenson's privileged upbringing in a wealthy white family facilitated his law school education.
"To Kill a Mockingbird," written in Monroe County, AL, parallels "Just Mercy" through themes of racial injustice and innocent black men being defended by white lawyers.

Economic Issues in Alabama

The Alabama government supported white landowners transitioning to timber farming, exacerbating economic hardship for African Americans as cotton farming declined.

Police Trust and Accountability

Ralph Myers was deemed trustworthy by the Monroe County police due to his status as a white lawyer.
Stevenson details two Gadsden police cases: one involving Mr. Ruffin who died after alleged police brutality, and another with a black teenager shot after a minor traffic stop, highlighting systemic failures in policing.

Public Reaction and Personal Encounters

The Baltimore Riots following Freddie Gray's death echo the injustices faced in Gadsden.
Stevenson's personal police encounter in Atlanta left him confused and concerned, prompting him to seek accountability from law enforcement.

Episodes discussed reveal a lack of police effectiveness and strained community trust toward law enforcement.

Historical Context and Personal Struggles

A senior citizen at Stevenson's church earned "medals of honor" for his civil rights activism, highlighting a legacy of bravery and sacrifice.
Walter McMillian was wrongfully convicted based on coerced allegations from Myers, resulting in his arrest under flawed legal premises.

Legal Landmark Cases

The 1986 Batson v. Kentucky ruling improved the ability to challenge racial discrimination in jury selection, offering hope to black defendants.
Walter's trial was moved to a predominantly white county, significantly impacting the jury's composition.

Advocacy and Evidence for McMillian's Innocence

Key allies for McMillian included supportive family, police officers, and church community leaders who provided alibi evidence during the time of the alleged crime.
New evidence revealed the corrupt practices of the sheriff and perjury in witness testimonies, which Stevenson worked to bring to light.

Systemic Flaws in Justice and Veterans' Services

Herbert Duncan, a Vietnam veteran with PTSD, faced execution highlighting flaws in recognizing mental health in legal defenses.
National trends show alarming statistics of military veterans incarcerated, indicating systemic neglect.

Socioeconomic Influences on Youth Justice

Cases of juvenile defendants like Charlie reveal disparities in treatment within the justice system, exacerbated by background factors like trauma and poverty.
Stevenson critiques the punitive measures for young offenders, emphasizing the need for rehabilitative rather than harsh punitive approaches.

Racial Disparities in Sentencing

Research indicates that the race of victims significantly influences death penalty decisions, revealing profound racial bias in the justice system.

Developments in Walter McMillian's Case

New findings emerged, including recantations from key witnesses and pressure tactics used by law enforcement, leading to legal attempts at establishing McMillian’s innocence.
Public and media scrutiny intensified as Stevenson and his team pursued the truth amidst systemic resistance.

Judicial Dynamics and Public Sentiment

The jury’s reception of Myers' recantation and subsequent changes during trial proceedings reflect on public awareness of systemic racism and biases.

Community Support Networks

Mr. and Mrs. Jennings represent altruistic efforts toward rehabilitation, contributing positively to Charlie’s education and stability.
Stevenson underscores the importance of community support in the journeys of those navigating the justice system.

Final Notes on Stevenson’s Reflections

Stevenson expresses frustration with the justice system’s treatment of marginalized defendants, advocating for fair reassessment of cases based on their contexts.
The narrative highlights the complexity of navigating systemic oppression, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding in justice practices.### Key Events and Personal Stories
Mrs. Williams recalls the traumatic events of 1965 in Selma, where civil rights activists faced police violence with attack dogs.
Powerful trial evidence includes conflicting testimonies about a low rider seen on the day of the murder, undermined by a mechanic's statement regarding the car's repair history.
The State's response to Stevenson's evidence at the trial is marked by shock and fear among attendees, highlighting its potential to sway the case.

Mental Illness and Incarceration Statistics

Over 50% of U.S. prison inmates have a diagnosed mental illness, a rate nearly five times that of the general population.
Deinstitutionalization rates exceed 95% in several states, raising concerns about mental health treatment.
Nearly 20% of inmates suffer from serious mental illnesses, revealing systemic issues.

Legal and Systemic Issues

Avery Jenkins suffers from mental illness but initially receives little belief or support from the legal system.
The treatment of individuals with mental disabilities is harshly contrasted with those suffering from physical ailments, emphasizing a lack of respect and proper care.
Dorothea Dix is highlighted for her advocacy in improving treatment for the mentally ill.

Court Rulings and Justice System Reflection

Walter McMillian's Rule 32 hearing results in an unfavorable ruling, largely due to reliance on a recanted testimony.
Stevenson's hopeful stance for Walter's relief remains despite judicial setbacks and the ongoing fight for justice.
The impact of the "60 Minutes" episode prompts a reinvestigation by the Alabama Bureau of Investigation, revealing flaws in the original case.

Socioeconomic and Gender Issues

Marsha Colby, a poor woman, faces legal repercussions after her stillborn child was born under unfortunate circumstances, which leads to her arrest.
New Alabama laws regarding exposure to dangerous environments disproportionately affect impoverished women, increasing their risk of prosecution.
Female inmates face significant collateral consequences, particularly as the majority are mothers, impacting their children’s well-being and future.

Advocacy and Systemic Change

Stevenson argues against laws that criminalize poverty, highlighting their detrimental impact on vulnerable populations.
Financial restitution for wrongfully imprisoned individuals is advocated due to the severe consequences of their wrongful incarceration.
Stevenson’s recognition of the harsh realities faced by individuals, particularly children sentenced to life imprisonment, draws attention to systemic inequities based on race and class.

Walter's eventual release does not free him from the trauma of his past, as he encounters safety concerns and health declines, illustrating the lasting effects of wrongful imprisonment.
Stevenson views justice not as mere punishment but as an opportunity for mercy and compassion towards those who have erred.
The narrative demonstrates the need for a legal system that integrates justice with humane treatment, ultimately advocating for societal reform.

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Description

This quiz explores the connection between law school education and racial injustice through the works of Stevenson and the narratives in 'To Kill a Mockingbird' and 'Just Mercy'. It examines economic issues in Alabama and systemic police failures affecting the African American community. Delve into critical themes around equity, trust, and accountability in the justice system.