Anticipated Supreme Court Decisions

I realize that this news may not excite many of you, but Supreme Court watchers are keeping a close eye on anticipated rulings in several important criminal cases.

I. "Honest Services" Mail Fraud:

For instance, former Enron CEO Jeff Skilling is awaiting a ruling from the Court concerning his appellate issue about "honest services" mail fraud. The issue concerns whether or not this statute is too vague, along with questions about whether federal prosecutors are using the federal statute in inappropriate ways to go after alleged crooked politicians and business people.

II. Appeals Involving Miranda Warnings:

In addition, the Supreme Court is expected to rule in a couple of appeals concerning whether or not the police improperly used or gave the Miranda warnings. In one case, the Court will decide whether officers can interview a suspect who has indicated that he understood his rights, but hasn't invoked them. In another appeal, the Court will decide whether an invocation by a suspect of his right to counsel can expire. The Court always seems to have an interest in making sure the police properly advise arrested suspects of their Constitutional rights.

So, have I piqued your interest in what the Supreme Court may decide in these criminal cases? Aren't you just filled with anticipation?!