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Amicus Curiae Letter in Support of Petition for Review in Chelsea Becker v. Superior Court
The brief argues that California law does not permit murder charges against women for pregnancy loss. It states that such prosecutions harm women and children, deter essential healthcare, and lack medical support.
Brief of Amici Curiae Center for Constitutional Rights, Transgender Law Center, National Center for Lesbian Rights, Make the Road New York et al. in Support of Respondents
The brief argues that punishing involuntarily homeless people for sleeping outside when no shelter is available is cruel and unusual punishment. It contends this criminalizes poverty and violates the Eighth Amendment.
Primer: Psychedelics
Psychedelics are chemicals categorized by structure. They are found in nature or made synthetically. These compounds alter perception, cognition, and mood, with effects varying by substance and dose.
Use of Marijuana: Effect on Brain Health: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Marijuana use is increasing, with growing potency in THC levels. Concerns exist about its effects on brain health, particularly in adolescents and young adults, and potential drug interactions.
Addington v. Texas
The Supreme Court ruled in 1979 that involuntary commitment requires clear evidence of danger to self or others. This balances personal freedom with public safety concerns.
Olmstead v. L.C.
The Court ruled that unjust institutionalization of disabled individuals, including those with substance use disorders, violates their rights. It mandated more community-based treatment options.
O’Connor v. Donaldson
The Court ruled it unconstitutional to involuntarily commit non-dangerous individuals capable of self-care. This principle applies to debates on addiction confinement.
Kortlever v. Whatcom County
The court approved a settlement requiring jails to provide medication for opioid use disorder (MMOUD). Denying it likely violated disability and cruel and unusual punishment protections.
Jacobson v. United States
The Court held that entrapment requires the government to prove the defendant was already willing to commit the crime, not merely offered an opportunity.
United States v. Russell
The Court upheld a drug conviction where a DEA agent supplied a precursor chemical. The defendant's existing intent to commit the crime was the deciding factor.
Conant v. Walters
Physicians can discuss and recommend medical marijuana to qualified patients under the First Amendment, without federal interference, the Ninth Circuit ruled.
Sherman v. United States
The Court held entrapment is a defense if government inducement caused a defendant with addiction to commit a crime they wouldn't otherwise.
Burrage v. United States
The Court ruled that a drug must be the direct cause of death for a sentencing enhancement. It cannot be merely a contributing factor.
The Vicious Cycle: Problematic Family Relations, Substance Abuse, and Crime in Adolescence: A Narrative Review
Adolescence is a time of high vulnerability where many physical, behavioral, and cognitive changes occur, often leading to risky behaviors. These actions can be influenced by individual, family, and environmental factors.
Adolescent Cannabis Use, Comorbid Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and Other Internalizing and Externalizing Disorders
Adolescent cannabis use is a growing concern, linked to cognitive issues, poor academic performance, and psychiatric problems. It often co-occurs with ADHD, which presents diagnostic and treatment challenges.