http://www.treesandthings.com/story/2008/9/30/10313/7075 The death penalty is frequently criticized because only the poorest among us really risk dates with the executioner.  It would stand to reason that the poorest can't afford to put on a first class defense.  One state, following a painful experience with reversals of wrongful convictions, decided to make sure money wouldn't deter a vigorous defense when one's life is on the line.  That state, Illinois, set up a pot of money those accused of capital crimes could tap to pay for their defense. &n en-us Wed, 1 Oct 2008 13:05:51 EST string http://www.treesandthings.com/search/