The Eighth Amendment to the Constitution prohibits inflicting cruel and unusual punishment – but did you know that it also prohibits excessive bail or fines? While the bond system has a long history in the United States, the idea of what constitutes excessive bail and its socioeconomic implications continue to evolve.
In today’s episode of Open Ninth, Chief Judge Fred Lauten and Ninth Circuit Judge Jenifer Harris walk us through this evolution of the bond system. Listen in as they explore its impact on the courts, defendants, and the community at-large.
Former Chief Judge and Moderator
Judge Fred Lauten served in the Ninth Circuit from 1994 to 2019. Between 2015 and 2019, he served as Chief Judge of the Circuit.
Circuit Court Judge
Judge Harris has served as a Circuit Judge since 2007. She currently serves in the Felony Criminal Division in Orange County.