1. Offenders who are released into the community each year face many obstacles in reintegrating into mainstream community life. What are the most immediate and universal problems upon reentry?
2. There are a number of collateral consequences that federal law imposes following a felony conviction, especially as they relate to employment. Discuss the impact of the DeVeau v Braisted case. Do you agree or disagree with the court's findings?
3. There are provisions in the U.S. Constitution and in the state for the restoration of rights to released offenders. From a legal perspective, consider the discretionary powers of the president in using pardon authority. Do you think that there are any grounds under which Congress or the judiciary should or could place limitations on this presidential authority? Be certain to discuss Article II, Section 2 of the United States Constitution.
4. To what extent would the pardon authority and action by the president be impacted by Article II, Section 4 of the United States Constitution?