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Biden Has 65 Days Left in Office. Here’s What He Can Do on Criminal Justice.

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Judicial appointments and the death penalty are among areas where a lame-duck administration can still leave a mark. Donald Trump’s second presidential term will begin on Jan. 20, bringing with it promises to dramatically reshape many aspects of the criminal justice system. The U.S. Senate — with its authority over confirming judicial nominees — will also shift from Democratic to Republican control.
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Mississippi death penalty case before U.S. Supreme Court

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The U.S. Supreme Court will consider Jan. 10 whether to hear an appeal from a woman on Mississippi's death row who is seeking a new trial in the slaying of her husband based on claims that she was abused.

Court officials say a decision could be announced shortly after the court conference.

Michelle Byrom says she deserves a new trial because her original lawyer failed to present what could have been evidence of physical and sexual abuse by her husband.

Prosecutors argue the abuse issue was raised at her trial and rejected by the sentencing judge.

Byrom was convicted of capital murder in 2000. She was sentenced to death.

Court records show Edward Byrom Sr., an electrician, was shot June 4, 1999, at the couple's home in Iuka.

Source: Associated Press, December 18, 2013
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