Final answer:
The Eighth Amendment prohibits excessive bail and fines, and cruel and unusual punishment. It is likely to be brought up by Stevenson to contest the fairness of Joe Sullivan’s sentence and argue it is disproportionate. Other Amendments protect the rights to counsel, jury trials, and against unreasonable searches and seizures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Eighth Amendment to the US Constitution
The Eighth Amendment to the US Constitution states: "Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted." This clause is intended to limit the severity of penalties imposed by the criminal justice system and ensure that punishments are fair and proportionate to the offense committed. In the context of defending Joe Sullivan, Stevenson would likely argue that the sentence received by Sullivan is cruel and unusual, given his age and the nature of the crime, and therefore in violation of the Eighth Amendment.
Sara, being accused of a non-felony crime, may not automatically be provided an attorney, but this varies based on interpretations of the Sixth Amendment, which affirms the right to counsel. Mr. Jones is entitled to a jury trial in civil matters where the claims exceed a certain amount, which is protected under the Seventh Amendment.
Carolyn cannot be subjected to hand-cutting punishment as it would be considered cruel and unusual under the Eighth Amendment. The ATF cannot confiscate Mr. Reynolds' weapons or search his home without due process, protected under the Fourth and Second Amendments.