While we work on creating a new format for the site, we are pleased to bring you our next topic of discussion for the Practitioner’s Commentary. The economics of the death penalty is a subject of much discussion in the criminal law community these days. The debate surrounding the current system of capital punishment in our country is multi-faceted. While the economic efficiency of this system is only one part of the debate, it is nonetheless an important part. Many studies have been undertaken to determine the amount the death penalty actually costs, and those on both sides of the capital punishment debate use these statistics in support of their arguments. The cost of capital punishment raises important questions on the effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability, and values of our current criminal justice system. With that being said, we are pleased to bring you articles from two well-respected members of the criminal law community on this important topic. As always, we invite (and encourage) anyone who reads these articles to leave comments. This site is intended to provide thought-provoking commentary and insight from those involved in the field of criminal law. Please help us by leaving a comment, even if it is just to give your opinion on the subject. Thank you.
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