EQUITABLE PUNISHMENT

- Marc G – Ryan Bek – Wei Wen –

Definition

Equitable punishment is the justification of a punishment met for a crime committed.

Crux of discussion: Fairness of punishment

Concept

Equitable punishment is the punishment meted out by trial by a neutral and fair court, conducted so as to accord each party the due process rights required by applicable law.

The punishment given should be directly portioned to the offence that is done.

“Let the Punishment fit the Crime.” (‘The Mikado’ A Comic Opera 1885, by Gilbert and Sullivan)

Case 1: Lindsay Lohan

Crime: Arrested for DUI (Driving-Under-Influence) twice. [May 07/July 07] &Possession of Cocaine

Normal Punishment: 90days/1 year license revoked + Mandatory Alcohol Education and Treatment & Fines of between $1,000 and $500,000 + Jail time of 4 months to 15 years

Lindsay’s Punishment: 10 days C.W.O + 3 years Probation + 18month Alcohol Education Program + No fine + 1 Day in Jail (Served 84 mins)

Case 1: Lindsay Lohan

Conclusion: Despite being a repeat offender, as well as a multiple offender, Lindsay Lohan gets off the hook easily.

Intelligent Assertion: Because of her celebrity background, she is given leniency with the law, and thus has a less impactful punishment.

Verdict: Not equitable punishment