Nonpayment Under Federal Shutdown Threatens Ray Martinez’s Right to Fair Trial
The federal government’s shutdown has entered its third week, with Republicans pushing for a clean continuing resolution and Democrats demanding funding for expanded Affordable Care Act subsidies.
The shutdown has far-reaching ramifications, including impacting public defenders' ability to represent clients.
Ahead of a status hearing, attorneys for former V.I. Police Department Commissioner Ray Martinez told the court that they cannot afford to book accommodation on St. Thomas in December, when the trial is scheduled to begin.
Attorneys warned that nonpayment due to the shutdown threatens Martinez's right to a fair trial.
Author's summary: Shutdown affects fair trial rights.