High Court Sets New Capital Case Rules

Spurred by the release of 13 inmates from Illinois’ death row, the state Supreme Court has set some of the nation’s most rigorous standards of training and experience for defense attorneys, prosecutors and judges handling capital cases.

Under the rules, the lead lawyer on each side must have at least five years of criminal litigation experience; previously, none was required. And judges who might preside over capital cases must attend training seminars every two years.

Also, the lead lawyer on each side must have worked on at least two murder trials. And prosecutors must let defense attorneys know quickly if they intend to seek the death penalty.