In a landmark case that could reshape the political landscape of Missouri, Chris Benjamin of KC Road Lawyers represented Herschel Young in the Supreme Court of Missouri, fighting for Young’s right to run for the office of South Commissioner in Cass County. This case underscores our unwavering commitment to defending clients’ rights all the way to the highest court in the state.
Herschel Young: Background of the Case
Herschel Young, a resident of Cass County, was convicted of a felony in 1995 when he defended his wife during an incident where she was spit on. In November 2023, Governor Mike Parson issued a pardon for Young, ostensibly clearing the way for him to run for public office again. Parson’s pardon declared that it “obliterates” Young’s conviction, restoring all rights of citizenship forfeited by the conviction. However, a legal challenge arose, arguing that the pardon does not erase Young’s original guilty plea, thus disqualifying him from holding office under Missouri law.
Legal Arguments
Representing Young, attorney Chris Benjamin argued that the governor’s pardon should allow Young to run for office. “The power to pardon is one of the checks and balances central to our constitutional framework,” Benjamin stated. He emphasized that a pardon should remove any legal disqualifications stemming from the conviction. Benjamin passionately defended the notion that Young’s rights were being infringed upon and that the spirit of the pardon should have enabled him to be on the ballot.
Benjamin’s efforts to defend his client’s rights highlight the relentless dedication of KC Road Lawyers. “We believe that Mr. Young would therefore be eligible,” Benjamin told the court, arguing that the governor’s 2023 action “obliterates” Young’s conviction. Benjamin’s briefs to the court underscored the importance of the power to pardon as a safeguard against individual injustices arising from strict adherence to the rule of law.
The Supreme Court Decision
On June 10, the Missouri Supreme Court heard arguments and, moving with remarkable speed, issued a ruling within hours. The court concluded that Young’s pardon does not exempt him from a state ban on candidates who have pleaded guilty to a felony crime. The majority decision, written by Supreme Court Judge Brent Powell, stated: “The legislature has clearly set forth that any individual who has pleaded guilty to a felony offense under Missouri law is disqualified to be a candidate for elective public office in the state, and Young has indisputably pleaded guilty to a felony offense under Missouri law.”
Significance of the Case
This case not only affects Young’s political future but also has broader implications for how pardons are interpreted and how pardoned individuals are deemed eligible for public office in Missouri. The ruling highlights a critical flaw in the current legal framework, where the spirit of a pardon – which is meant to restore an individual’s rights – fails to fully reinstate those rights due to rigid statutory interpretations. This decision underscores the need for legislative reform to ensure that pardons effectively reintegrate individuals into society, allowing them to participate fully in civic life.
KC Road Lawyers: Advocates for Justice
Chris Benjamin’s representation of Herschel Young in this high-profile case exemplifies KC Road Lawyers’ dedication to their clients. Known for their aggressive advocacy and willingness to take cases to the highest courts, KC Road Lawyers stand out as a champion of their clients’ rights. With a strong track record in personal injury, traffic law, and criminal defense, the firm is committed to ensuring fair treatment and justice for all.
When your rights are on the line, trust KC Road Lawyer Chris Benjamin to fight aggressively and take your case all the way. For a consultation with Chris Benjamin, contact KC Road Lawyers at 816-425-2420 or visit our contact page. We have offices in Lee’s Summit, Butler, and Harrisonville, Missouri. We understand that legal issues can arise unexpectedly, and we are available to assist you at any time, day or night. Trust KC Road Lawyers to relentlessly defend your rights.