Paul Butler, a former prosecutor, will present a brief, terse argument for a concept called strategic jury nullification, which the act of voting “not guilty” on principle. Butler, now a law professor at George Washington University, will present the notion at “The Little Idea,” a short lecture by a single speaker. The professor maintains that strategic jury nullification can reverse the detriment caused by “mass incarceration and unfair criminal-justice policies.” The lecture is in conjunction with the release of his new book, “Lets Get Free: A Hip-Hop Theory of Justice.”
Butler was inspired to write the book after being arrested and jailed for a crime he didn’t commit. “I am still a prosecutor at heart. I like justice and fair play. This book is about how to get those back,” he said via statement. “My main concern is you—the law-abiding person. I want to keep you safe and free.”
When: Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Time: 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Location: Gallery Bar
Street: 120 Orchard St. (at Delancey)
City: New York, NY
Price: Free
