Jury Trial In Connecticut

The following is the substance of the law of Connecticut respecting persons claimed as fugitives from slavery, enacted in 1838. It provides that the claimant may have a writ of habeas Corpus to bring the alledged fugitive beforo a Judge, or before the Supreme or county Court if in session, or before a city court, if he be arrested in a city. 2. The proof to oblain this writ shall be by affidavit of the applicant stating the facts. 3. On bringing in the person arrested, the Judge or Court may proceed to hear the case, and if necessary, may adjourn the hearing, committing him to the custody of the sheriff, or taking bond for his appearance. 4. If requested by either party, the trial shall be by a jury of twelve men. 5. If on trial, the court or jury find that the claimant is not entitled to the services of the person claimed, they may discharge him from custody, and award damages against the claimant. If they find the applicant is entitled to his services, they shall give him a certifícate to that effect, and allow him to take the fugitive back to the State where he belongs and the certifícate thus given shall be sufficient authority for so doing. 6. The fees shall be paid by the applicant. 7. No justice or other person, unless authorized to issue the writ of habeas corpus, shall issue a warrant for the apprehension of any person as a fugitive slave under the penalty of five hundred dollars. 8. No person shall remove any person from the State except as aforesaid under penalty of five hundred dollars.