California rap artist Ronnie Louvier's 2009 murder conviction may be overturned under the Racial Justice Act due to the use of his rap lyrics as evidence in the case.
Key Points
Rap and hip-hop music face different standards in the legal system
Efforts by Howard University Law School's Criminal Justice Clinic to support Louvier's case
Push for legislation to decriminalize hip-hop and rap
Pros
Potential for overturning a conviction based on unfair use of rap lyrics in court
Efforts to limit negative stereotypes and racial discrimination in legal proceedings
Cons
Prosecution arguing that the rap lyrics were relevant to proving charges