Bell v. Wolfish
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Summary

This 1979 Supreme Court case established that under the Due Process Clause, pretrial detainees cannot be punished before conviction, but restrictions reasonably related to legitimate governmental objectives do not constitute punishment

1979 | Federal Juristiction

Bell v. Wolfish

Keywords Due Process Clause; pretrial detainees; punishment; conviction; restrictions
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Summary

The United States Supreme Court, in a 1979 ruling, determined that individuals held in custody prior to trial cannot be subjected to punitive measures before a legal conviction. However, the Court also clarified that impositions or restrictions, when rationally connected to valid governmental objectives, are not considered punishment. This interpretation falls under the framework of the Due Process Clause of the Constitution.

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Summary

A 1979 Supreme Court case clarified the legal standing of individuals held in jail before their trial. The ruling established that under the Due Process Clause of the U.S. Constitution, these pretrial detainees cannot be subjected to punishment prior to a conviction. However, the Court also determined that certain restrictions or conditions placed on them are permissible. Such restrictions are not considered punishment if they are reasonably related to legitimate governmental objectives, such as maintaining security within a facility or ensuring order.

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Summary

In 1979, the Supreme Court decided that individuals held in custody before their trial cannot be punished until they are convicted. However, rules or limits that are reasonably connected to proper government goals are not seen as punishment.

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Summary

In 1979, the Supreme Court made a decision about people held in jail before their trial. It ruled that these individuals cannot be punished before they are found guilty. However, rules that are needed for good reasons, like keeping people safe, are not considered punishment.

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Footnotes and Citation

Cite

441 U.S. 520 (1979)

Highlights