Teague Rule Federal Convictions

Summary

The Teague rule generally prohibits retroactive application of new constitutional rules of criminal procedure. Exceptions include watershed rules, which must prevent a significant risk of inaccurate conviction and alter fundamental procedural elements. Consult a local attorney for detailed guidance.

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Massachusetts
Hello, in Massachusetts, the Teague rule from Supreme Court generally prohibits retroactive application of new constitutional rules of criminal procedure. However, the application can vary:
- Depending on the specifics of the case.
- If the new rule is a "watershed rule of criminal procedure"
Please consult with a local attorney for an in-depth analysis.
What specifics of a case make it fall under the watershed rule
Specifics that make a rule "watershed" include:
- It must be necessary to prevent an "impermissibly large risk" of an inaccurate conviction.
- It must "alter our understanding of the bedrock procedural elements essential to the fairness of a proceeding."
This is a very high standard to meet.