US criminal law is not static, but constantly evolving. What are some of the factors that influence and change our laws?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

State courts might change the meaning of state statutes. Judicial decision making can also influence the content of laws, such as when an appellate judge rules a statute is vague, deals with an act no longer of interest to the public, or is an unfair exercise of state control over an individual. Judicial ruling can also expand the scope of an existing criminal law. One important source that influences all laws in the United States is the Constitution. All laws have to conform to the rules and dictates of the Constitution or they will be challenged in appellate courts and stricken from the code or revised. Changing public views can also influence laws. If society in general no longer views a certain act, like public drunkenness, as a crime worthy of time in jail, then it can be decriminalized and punished in a milder way, like charging a fine. State and federal legislatures write and debate new laws based on the concerns of constituents or what they see as pressing issues for the state and country.