Criminal Lawyer
The Constitution is the highest law of the land in the United States. And the Eighth Amendment to the Constitution prohibits cruel and unusual punishment. But unfortunately, just as the First Amendment’s guarantee of free speech has not eliminated infringements upon free speech, the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition has not led to an elimination of cruel and unusual punishment.
The concept of what is cruel and unusual evolves over time and is somewhat limited to whatever criteria courts within a particular jurisdiction have determined fits that description. As a result, it may be helpful for individuals with questions about this subject to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney in their area. These professionals are generally excellent resources and will be able to advise individuals in regards to their questions, whether they be broad and theoretical or pertaining to the treatment of a specific individual currently in custody.
In modern times, cruel and unusual punishments often occur in the form of unacceptable conditions of incarceration. For example, denying incarcerated persons access to necessary medical treatment and enough security to keep them reasonably safe may be considered an Eighth Amendment violation. In many situations, which behaviors and conditions are and are not considered cruel and unusual depends upon the context of the situation in question. For example, serious overcrowding, conditions so hot and humid that they become potentially fatal, denying inmates access to necessary medication and failing to protect high-risk prisoners from others likely to do them harm may fall into the category of cruel and unusual punishment, depending on specific circumstances.
Confinement and Excessive Force
Two of the most common claims brought in regards to the protections outlined in the Eighth Amendment are those related to unacceptable conditions related to incarceration and excessive force. In general, claims related to confinement must adequately demonstrate that a facility and/or its agents demonstrated “deliberate indifference” with regards to an individual’s constitutional rights.
In regards to excessive force, claims must generally demonstrate that force was not exercised in good faith, was at least in-part grounded in malicious or sadistic intent and was not part of a reasonable effort to restore discipline. These standards may be difficult to prove, but they have certainly been met in previous cases brought before American courts.
Legal Guidance Is Available
Simply because the Constitution outlaws cruel and usual punishment doesn’t mean that such infractions never occur. Thankfully, because such punishments are explicitly outlawed at the highest levels of governmental regulation on record, individuals who have suffered cruel and unusual punishments are often able to seek legal redress related to their situation. If you or a loved one has suffered as a result of cruel and unusual punishment or conditions while incarcerated, please consider speaking with an experienced reckless driving lawyer Fairfax, VA relies on. Once a lawyer is familiar with the details of your situation, he or she will be best positioned to advise you of your legal options and to help ensure that you receive access to the support you need at this time.
Thank you to our friends and contributors at Dave Albo – Attorney for their insight into criminal defense.