A (Gen X Pop Music) Criminal Procedure Playlist

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Northwestern Law Journal des Refuses

Journal Abbreviation

Nw. L.J. des Refuses

Abstract

Recent research suggests that music can play a role in law school classrooms by helping students commit to memory key legal principles or relevant facts that are triggered by remembering such songs. This article provides a list of songs that directly or indirectly connect to criminal procedure doctrine or topics. The songs I have chosen contain lyrics that can reinforce key points from seminal criminal procedure cases. The lyrics don’t actually have to be about the criminal legal system or the police, and in fact, most are not; nonetheless, the lyrical selections highlight important lessons. For example, why do we allow criminal defendants to waive their right to counsel and choose to represent themselves when self-representation is universally viewed as a terrible idea? The opening riff (indeed, the title) of Bon Jovi's "It's My Life" provides a succinct summary of the Supreme Court's answer.

First Page

69

Last Page

99

Publication Date

2025

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