As part of Griftfdrift’s lawyer caucus, here are my thoughts on SB13, the life without parole bill.
First, a little background:
Life without parole is only available if one seeks the death penalty. The jury then has the ability to choose between death or life without parole (LWOP). In non-death penalty murders, there’s only one option – life with parole (Life). Note: On a life sentence, you are eligible after 30 years.
Section 1 allows prosecutors to seek an LWOP sentence on all murders. Will this cut down on death penalty cases? Absolutely, but it will not mean the end to the death penalty in Georgia.
Section 5 allows death penalty jurors three options – Death, LWOP or Life. This was probably a compromise provision. If the State’s going through the hoops of a death penalty trial, it’s unlikely that the crime warrants Life over LWOP. But hey, the option is always nice.
When I first read Section 3, it appeared to me that it would allow for LWOP for serious violent felonies aka The Seven Deadlies, but I believe my first reading was incorrect and I was thrown off by some of the language. I think it just clarifies that when they say “life without parole” they really mean it. Heh.
Assuming my second reading is correct, I withdraw any major criticisms of this bill.
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