Legal documents presented by plaintiffs, defendants, and, at times, other interested parties outlining their arguments in writing are best described as ______.

Why have several cities in California declared bankruptcy or are on the verge of doing so?

What will be an ideal response?

Which of the following are prohibited under Eighth Amendment protections against "cruel and unusual punishment"?

a. Execution of the mentally retarded b. Execution for capital crimes c. Use of voluntary prison labor d. Execution by hanging e. Solitary confinement