‘I lost a lot of hope’: Nevada pays $100K to woman convicted for miscarriage under 1911 law - AP News
AP News
February 19, 2026
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Nevada has settled a wrongful conviction case involving a woman who was convicted under an outdated 1911 law related to miscarriage. The state agreed to pay $100,000 to the woman, who had served time in prison for a miscarriage she experienced while pregnant with her third child. This case highlights the lingering impact of archaic laws on modern-day legal systems and raises questions about justice and accountability.
The law in question criminalized women for self-induced or accidental miscarriages, which is now widely recognized as outdated and discriminatory. The woman was convicted in 2019 under Nevada’s century-old statute, which classified certain miscarriages as felonies punishable by imprisonment. Her case drew significant public attention, sparking debates about the morality and constitutionality of such laws.
The settlement marks a rare instance where a state has financially compensated someone wrongfully convicted under such an outdated law. Legal experts note that this case could set a precedent for addressing similar injustices tied to antiquated statutes. The woman’s attorney emphasized that the payout not only provides financial relief but also serves as a symbolic acknowledgment of the harm caused by these laws.
This story underscores the importance of revisiting and reforming outdated legal frameworks, particularly those affecting vulnerable populations. Advocacy groups are calling for broader legal reforms to prevent such injustices in the future. The case also raises awareness about the intersection of law, morality, and women’s rights, making it a significant issue for readers interested in social justice and legal innovation.
Ultimately, this settlement reflects the ongoing struggle to reconcile historical laws
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Originally published on AP News on 2/19/2026