Multistate Bar Examination Practice Question

A punishment is considered cruel and unusual under the Eighth Amendment if it is disproportionate to the offense, barbaric, or violates society's evolving standards of decency. Punishing a minor, such as a 14-year-old, with life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for non-homicide crimes has been deemed unconstitutional by the Supreme Court, as it fails to account for the diminished culpability of juveniles and societal standards. On the other hand, capital punishment for murder is constitutionally permissible under specific circumstances if procedural safeguards are met, and a fine that aligns with the financial impact of a violation generally does not qualify as cruel or unusual.