Abstract
This Note will explore the problem of unequal justice for homosexuals by focusing on jury bias. Part I discusses the current social perceptions of homosexuality and the psychology of jury bias, and how the two can affect the treatment of homosexuals within our justice system. In Part II, this Note discusses how rape shield statutes can affect homosexual victims and defendants in rape and sexual assault cases differently than their heterosexual counterparts. Part III examines the use of the homosexual advance defense as mitigation for murdering a homosexual victim. Part IV then discusses how to deal with our current jury bias and whether there should be voir dire into jurors' sexuality or views on homosexuality. Finally, this Note argues that unequal justice for homosexuals within our justice system is created by allowing jury bias to prevail and that utilizing voir dire to ascertain jury views about homosexuality may be the best hope in combating this injustice.
Files
Metadata
- Subject
Civil Rights and Discrimination
Sex Crimes
Sexuality and Sexual Orientation
- Journal title
Boston College Third World Law Journal
- Volume
20
- Issue
1
- Pagination
201
- Date submitted
7 September 2022