Three-Judge Panel Appointed in Case of Aubrey Trail
A three-judge sentencing panel for State of Nebraska v. Aubrey Trial, CR 18-37, in the District Court for Saline County has been named.
Presiding Judge Vicky Johnson requested the Chief Justice appoint two judges as panel members, in accordance with Nebraska statute. The judges, Julie D. Smith and Michael A. Smith were randomly selected from a statewide list of judges. Johnson will serve as the presiding judge.
Generally, hearings of the three judge panels occur in the same location as the original trial.
The Chief Justice’s Order for Appointment is attached below.
Statutes governing the death penalty and the three-judge panel, including the Statement of Intent of the legislature, are found at Nebraska Revised Statutes §§ 29-2519 to 29-2524.
News Reporters: Information regarding Nebraska’s Three Judge Panel process can be found https://supremecourt.nebraska.gov/media/panel