Discussion » Questions » Legal » Should the victims of violent crimes be given a vote in the penalty phase of convicted felons' hearings? ~
Randy D

Should the victims of violent crimes be given a vote in the penalty phase of convicted felons' hearings? ~

Posted - February 18, 2018
Tags : None

Responses


  • 10052
    They are and should be allowed to attend and to be heard by the judge/jury. They shouldn't be given a vote, but I think their opinions/wishes should be considered. 
      February 18, 2018 11:18 PM MST
    4

  • 53509
    I've just edited the question. 
    ~
      February 18, 2018 11:56 PM MST
    1

  • 7939
    I agree with Savvy. It's good for them to be heard, but I don't think voting is a good idea. When they're too close to it, it's hard to give a rational vote versus an emotional one.
      February 19, 2018 2:47 AM MST
    5

  • 53509


      Oh, you think rationality is important in a situation like that, I see.  Hmm, now that you've brought it up, I'd actually prefer it the other way around. 





      February 19, 2018 6:20 AM MST
    2

  • 11005
    No. That might make the the penalty more about revenge than about fair punishment.
      February 19, 2018 3:21 AM MST
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  • 53509


      There's something wrong with revenge?
    ~
      February 19, 2018 6:21 AM MST
    2

  • 11005
    I'm not a fan of revenge, especially not as part of the justice system.
      February 20, 2018 2:52 AM MST
    2

  • 19937
    I agree with Ansley - they should be heard, but not have a vote.  That would be a conflict of interest.
      February 19, 2018 6:31 AM MST
    2

  • 44617
    Maybe the victim or victim's family should have the final 'nay' or 'yay'.
      February 19, 2018 8:00 AM MST
    1

  • 17596
    No voting.  I believe allowing them an opportunity to address the court is good.
      February 19, 2018 11:31 AM MST
    1

  • 53509


    That already happens. 
    ~
      February 19, 2018 4:38 PM MST
    0

  • 17596
    Sometimes.
      February 19, 2018 9:38 PM MST
    1