¶1 (dissenting).—Unless the judgment in this case can be reformed, I think the case should be reversed and the cause remanded. I do not agree, however, to the conclusion that the law is unconstitutional insofar as it defines the offense and fixes the penalty. I think, as to the mere matter of collection of a fine, if this should fail, that it ought not to carry the law down with it. I have written my views at some length in the case of Ex parte Frank A. Smythe, this day decided, to which I respectfully refer the interested reader.
56 Tex. Crim. 220
120 S.W 173
Phillips v. State
Court of Criminal Appeals of Texas
Decided May 12, 1909
Court of Criminal Appeals of Texas · decided 1909-05-12
<p>Wife Abandonment—Constitutional Law.</p> <p>The Act of the Thirtieth Legislature p. 133 authorizing the punishment of the husband who deserts his wife for reasons stated in said act is unconstitutional. Ramsey, Judge, dissenting.</p>
Decided 1909-05-12