Justice

All Justice

As California looks to expand death row, a flap over where to build it

Death-penalty foes want the condemned to be kept at San Quentin Prison rather than transferred to remote areas.
New drive to ban race preferences

Initiatives in three states would prohibit affirmative action in public realms.
Guantánamo Detainees: shorter wait?

Last month's Supreme Court ruling sets new rules for judges examining habeas corpus challenges from detainees.
A less deferential high court

Key decisions of this term show a willingness of some justices to reject political leaders' judgments.
Ban torture for security's sake, coalition tells Bush

The bipartisan group this week sought an executive order, but acknowledged change may not occur until next presidency.
Alaskans call oil-spill payment 'tragic'

The Supreme Court cut Exxon's payment far more than many residents had expected.
Supreme Court asserts broad gun rights

The historic 5 to 4 ruling says the right to bear arms applies to individuals.
High court strikes down 'millionaire's amendment'

The move against the fundraising exceptions for wealthy candidates is the latest blow to McCain-Feingold reforms.
High court strengthens right to confront accusers

The case involved a California man who killed his ex-girlfriend after she complained to police.
High court slashes Exxon Valdez oil spill damages

The ruling, a victory for Exxon, reduced the $2.5 billion punitive damages to about $500 million.
Supreme Court sharply limits use of death penalty

In a 5-to-4 ruling, the justices decide child rape isn't a capital offense.
Fired U.S. attorneys case hits judicial roadblock

A cautious judge may be good news for Bush officials in ongoing subpoena struggle.
Case of sonar's effects on whales heads to high court

At issue: Can a judge enforce environmental rules at the expense of national defense training?
Disagreement widespread within US government over 2002 harsh interrogations

Even some military lawyers opposed the techniques, according to congressional testimony this week.
Court clarifies standards for denial of disability benefits

In a ruling Thursday, it guides federal judges to weigh conflicts of interest by insurance companies.
High court: limits to defend oneself in court

Justices rule 7 to 2 that some defendants aren't competent enough to represent themselves.
Gay marriage: a new bind for church groups

Religiously affiliated schools, hospitals, and others may be the next flash point.
New legal fight over U.S. antiterror tactics

The Supreme Court agrees to examine if high-level officials can be sued for harsh policies.
Guantánamo detainees win right to court review

The US Supreme Court ruled 5 to 4 Thursday that those held in Guantánamo can challenge their detention.
U.S. judges can't pull Americans from Iraqi courts

Thursday's Supreme Court ruling involved men accused of kidnapping-for-ransom schemes.