Criminal cases; poll elicits fear of rogue jury

Article Abstract:

Some criminal defense lawyers maintain that the cynicism evident from the first Juror Outlook Survey directly threatens defendants' right to a fair trial. More than 40% of potential jury members polled maintain a defendant who does not testify is hiding something, and three of four admit they might disregard a judge's instructions in favor of using their own judgment. Defense lawyers claim this could harm defendants since a common instruction tells jurors not to infer guilt from a defendant's silence. Defense lawyers and prosecutors agree the press deserves the blame for skepticism about the courts.

Analysis, Beliefs, opinions and attitudes, Criminal justice, Administration of, Administration of criminal justice, Jury members

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Searching for the 'candy bar,' law grads flee tougher exams

Article Abstract:

A revised grading structure making the PA state bar exam more difficult to pass contributed to a steep drop in the number of people taking it this year. In July 1994 3,400 took the PA exam, but only 2,124 took it in July 1995, a 38% drop. The passing rate for the state had avergaed 85% over the past five years, unusually high compared to other states, but plunged to 48% for the Feb 1995 exam, the nation's second-lowest rate. The MD Board of Examiners reported a 12% increase in bar-takers, some presumably from PA.

Statistics, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Bar examinations, states

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States fight historic battle for Ellis Island; original jurisdiction invoked as New Jersey seeks a chunk of the immigration landmark

Article Abstract:

State of New Jersey v. State of New York uses original jurisdiction to settle who controls most of Ellis Island. New Jersey bases ownership claims of 24.5 acres of landfill on an 1834 agreement. The fight involves which state has the right to make law and levy taxes. Several historic societies have sided with New York, who they claim has taken more of an interest in historic preservation.

Cases, Jurisdiction, Federal-state controversies

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