jun 29, 2002 - Atkins v. Virginia

Description:

Decision: Execution of mentally ill criminals is cruel and unusual punishment.

Impact: Protected mentally ill criminals from execution for crimes.

QUESTION: Does this ruling cause people to claim to be mentally ill in order to avoid the death penalty?

Lawrence v Texas Jun 26, 2003 (didn't have room for another event without getting premium)

Decision: The Texas law making it illegal to engage in intimate sexual conduct for people of the same sex violates the Due Process Clause.

Impact: Expanded gay rights.

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