Category: Criminal Law
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Cell phone rings in criminal trial and courtroom cleared
Does a judge violate a criminal defendant’s Sixth Amendment right to a public trial violated when a cell phone goes off and the judge clears the courtroom? In a word, Yes. But what is the remedy? The Sixth Amendment: “In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by…
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Begging in public is protected speech in Michigan
Speet, et al. v. Schuette No. 12-2213 The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution reads, Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government…