This committee was created to keep the Executive Council aware of any changes to the status of capital litigation in Florida. It is intentionally constituted with members who give it a philosophical balance on the issues relating to capital crimes; so that parochial or ideological views do not sway the full committee.

The group concentrates on the changes in case law, legislative changes, and new Bar rules or procedures which might influence how capital cases, which are unique, would be prosecuted. For example, the question of requiring unanimous penalty phase verdicts is presently being addressed in the courts and by the legislature. If there are any modifications, this committee would advise the Executive Council; allowing it to respond as the voice of the Criminal Law practitioners in Florida.

What makes the Criminal Law Section unique, and the reason you should be a member, is that we are the only organization whose members are judges, law professors, and criminal lawyers (state and federal, prosecution and defense, public and private). As members, we share information, ideas, and philosophies in a collegial and meaningful dialogue and we improve our individual skills and effectiveness. As a Section of the Bar, we have credibility. This enables us to work effectively to improve the quality of justice for those affected by our criminal justice systems. We advise the courts, including the Supreme Court, the legislature, and the Bar, on issues ranging from processes and procedures to substantive law. If you are not a member, you should be.