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Mendoza-Martinez test
Definition
A two-step framework from Kennedy v. Mendoza-Martinez used to determine if a government action constitutes criminal punishment. Step 1 asks whether Congress intended to impose punishment through statutory construction. Step 2, reached only if step 1 is ambiguous, examines whether the measure is so punitive in purpose or effect that it must be deemed criminal regardless of Congress's label.
Examples
- •The government urged the Court to resolve this case under step 1, finding Congress plainly intended criminal punishment, without reaching step 2