Supreme Court of the United States

Beard v. Banks — Souter, J., Dissenting

June 24, 2004542 U.S. 406

Summary

Justice Souter dissents, joining Justice Stevens. He critiques the majority's application of the Teague v. Lane new rule standard, arguing the Court overemphasizes finality and undervalues accuracy in capital sentencing. He contends Mills v. Maryland did not announce a new rule and would affirm the Court of Appeals' judgment.