Factors Influencing Death Row Sentencing and Criminal Trials

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture notes on death row demographics and criminal trials.

Death Row

A prison section where inmates are held awaiting execution after being sentenced to death.

Demographics

Statistical data relating to the population and particular groups within it, often used to understand trends such as those seen in death row statistics.

Capital Cases

Special criminal cases that may result in the death penalty, usually involving premeditated or first-degree murder.

Bifurcated Trials

Trials consisting of two parts: one to determine guilt and another to decide penalty.

Jury Sequestration

The isolation of a jury from the public during a trial to prevent outside influence.

Mandatory Minimum Sentencing

Laws that set minimum sentences for specific crimes, removing discretion from judges.

Determinate Sentencing

Fixed sentences established by legislative statutes that rule out alternatives to prison.

Three-Strikes Laws

Laws that impose severe sentences, such as life imprisonment, upon individuals convicted of a third felony.

Racial Disparities in Sentencing

Differences in sentencing outcomes that correlate with the race of the convicted individuals.

Gender Disparity in Criminal Trials

The noticeable difference in the sentencing rates and types of crimes committed between genders, particularly regarding the death penalty.