In 1966, Ernesto Miranda signed a confession that led to a 20-30-year sentence – despite the only evidence incriminating him being circumstantial. His signed confession swore that he did it under no pressure, but his lawyer had the confession thrown out after arguing it was not voluntary. No one told him about his right to remain silent or consult with a lawyer. The Miranda case became a landmark in Bright-line Standards, deciding that everyone in custody must be specifically read what came to be known as their Miranda Rights – a Bright-line standard, no exceptions.
When it comes to property management, landlords and owners have plenty of Bright-line Standards that seem like a steady way to keep their property and tenants safe. No criminals, no felonious records, no sex offenders, no evictions. These seem like good rules to many rental properties but like most rules, it’s not always fair. Just because the same rule is applied across the board, doesn’t mean all players are really being treated as just.
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