http://www.detnews.com/2004/nation/0...a15-254861.htm
According to this article, CA offers $100 a day for compensation for exonerated prisioners....however, only a few cases have actually been approved for compensation.
The vast majority of those cleared of their crimes only get pocket change given at the prision gates and the clothes on their back to start their lives over again. "On the other hand, those who never had their convictions overturned - parolees - can receive free employment counseling, housing referrals and physical and mental health services through parole agents charged with helping them rejoin society."
"A proposed bill would address what advocates for the exonerated see as shortcomings in the law. The measure would require the state to notify exonerated former prisoners of their potential eligibility for compensation; provide interim health, housing and other services for up to three years; and fund a case management agency, such as Life After Exoneration.
Vollen estimates that 20 percent of the exonerated people she knows have lawsuits pending against authorities. Legal action, however, is not a promising tactic, given that those who sue must prove intentional misconduct by authorities and given that prosecutors enjoy broad immunity."
"The California law, like those of other states, requires that the applicant do more than just prove innocence. A claimant must show that he didn't "intentionally or negligently contribute to the bringing about of his arrest or conviction."
The high standard explains why relatively few claims have succeeded, California Deputy Attorney General Michael Farrell said."
11-01-2004
Hybrid Mode
