Mattox v. United States

156 U.S. 237 (1895)

Facts

Mattox (P) was convicted of murder. His first conviction was reversed, with a new trial ordered. In the period of time between the two trials, the two key witnesses against P died. At the new trial, the court allowed transcripts of the deceased witnesses' testimony to be admitted. P was convicted again. P appealed, claiming that he was denied a chance to confront and cross-examine these witnesses.