The lesser of two evils : exploring the constitutionality of indefinite detentions of terror enemy combatants following the end of "combat operations" in Afghanistan / Justin A. Thatch
The lesser of two evils : exploring the constitutionality of indefinite detentions of terror enemy combatants following the end of "combat operations" in Afghanistan
Author zone:
Justin A. Thatch
Host item entries:
William and Mary Bill of rights journal, Vol. 24, issue 4, 2016, p. 1205-1234
Languages:
English
General Note:
Photocopies
Abstract:
The end of "combat operations" in Afghanistan has added a significant wrinkle to the debate surrounding detainee due process rights, and the Supreme Court will likely be called on to decide this issue. This note explores how the U.S. Supreme Court should approach this constitutional question. Part I discusses the legal basis for the "War on Terror". It further explores some of the key cases in the Supreme Court's terror detention jurisprudence. The focus then shifts to recent cases addressing the issues of whether detainees can be held following the end of "combat operations" in Afghanistan. Part II argues that the Supreme Court, in ruling on habeas petitions from detainees, should uphold the executive branch's constitutional authority to detain terror suspects indefinitely, even if active combat has ended in Afghanistan. It then explores various legal theories that the Court may use to justify its decision, including the argument that the end of combat operations does not preclude the executive branch's constitutional detention power. Part III explores possible policy decisions that the elected branches may pursue in order to provide some clarity on the constitutionality of the detention issue.
By entering this website, you consent to the use of technologies, such as cookies and analytics, to customise content, advertising and provide social media features. This will be used to analyse traffic to the website, allowing us to understand visitor preferences and improving our services. Learn more