Nashville Union And American

The extracts which we publish to-day, from letters of Judges and District Attorneys to the Comptroller, show that those officials are impressed with the importance of doing something to relieve the State from the heavy burdens borne because of the immense expense of criminal prosecutions. It is a subject in which the taxpayers of the State should feel an interest. They are literally groaning under the weight of their taxes; and yet, but few, but very few, know that so large a proportion of every dollar they pay goes to pay witnesses, jurors and officials in criminal cases. About twenty thousand dollars a month the people of Tennessee pay for costs in felony cases. For misdemeanors, it is probable that they pay into the county treasuries nearly as much. Is there no remedy for this? Who so competent to suggest it to the public and through the public to the next General Assembly as the Judges and District Attorneys who are daily engaged in the criminal law? But we need not wait until the next legislature for all relief. This convention of Judges can afford much by establishing uniform rules in the taxation of costs, by adopting more rigid rules of practice and by determining to enforce more promptly the criminal laws. If they do nothing more than fixedly resolve to help the Comptroller in the work of retrenchment and reform, they will accomplish a great good. It is not to be expected that all crime can be checked or all costs avoided, but the work can be begun and partial relief at least be afforded. It is gratifying to know that not only the Judges but the people are becoming aroused upon this subject.