Capital punishment is in the spotlight at symposium
Experts will discuss death penalty policy in Ohio and nation

An increase in executions, coupled with rising concerns about fairness in the administration of the death penalty, have brought capital punishment into the public and political spotlight. The legal landscape may change, as well, as a result of the U.S. Supreme Court hearing two cases on the constitutionality of executing persons with mental retardation. Meanwhile, states (including Ohio) continue making arrangements for scheduled executions despite calls moratoriums, and the federal government itself has planned its first execution in nearly 50 years.

Prominent law and social science professors, legislators, and attorneys will discuss the current system of capital punishment as The Ohio State University College of Law hosts the Ohio State Law Journal Symposium, “Addressing Capital Punishment through Statutory Reform,” on Friday and Saturday (March 30-31) at the College of Law, 55 W. 12th Ave.

Friday sessions offer a national focus as experts from across the political spectrum, including Ohio Attorney General Betty Montgomery, discuss the importance of statutes and politics in the administration of the death penalty, and the need and means to reform how death sentences are ascribed, reviewed and carried out. On Saturday, Ohio Supreme Court Justice Paul Pfeiffer will present the keynote address at 9:30 a.m. as the focus turns toward Ohio's experience with the death penalty.

The complete agenda is available at http://www.law.ohio-state.edu/LawJournal/dpsymposium.html

WHAT:The Ohio State Law Journal Symposium, “Addressing Capital Punishment through Statutory Reform”

WHEN:Friday (3/30) and Saturday (3/31)

WHY:Ohio State offers informed analysis on a topic of major importance.