Explain how U.S. Supreme Court rulings on jury make up, legal representation or another procedural issue has contributed to reductions in systematic racial discrimination within the criminal justice system.

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The Answer is The U.S. Supreme Court has played a significant role in addressing systematic racial discrimination within the criminal justice system through its rulings on jury makeup, legal representation, and other procedural issues. One of the most notable cases is Batson v. Kentucky (1986), in which the Court ruled that it is unconstitutional to use peremptory challenges to exclude potential jurors based on their race. This decision has contributed to a more diverse and representative jury pool, reducing the likelihood of racial bias in jury decision-making.

Additionally, the Court's rulings on legal representation, such as Gideon v. Wainwright (1963) which established the right to counsel for indigent defendants, have helped to ensure that all individuals, regardless of race or socioeconomic status, have access to competent legal representation. This has helped to address disparities in the quality of defense and the outcomes of criminal cases for minority defendants.

Furthermore, the Court's decisions on procedural issues, such as Miranda v. Arizona (1966) which established the requirement for law enforcement to inform individuals of their rights upon arrest, have contributed to a more fair and equitable criminal justice system. By ensuring that individuals are aware of their rights and have access to legal counsel, these rulings have helped to reduce the likelihood of coerced confessions and wrongful convictions, particularly for minority individuals who may be more vulnerable to police misconduct.

Overall, the U.S. Supreme Court's rulings on jury makeup, legal representation, and procedural issues have been instrumental in addressing systematic racial discrimination within the criminal justice system. By upholding the principles of fairness, equality, and due process, these decisions have helped to promote a more just and equitable legal system for all individuals, regardless of race.

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