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I dared not trust the case on the presumption that the…

“I dared not trust the case on the presumption that the court knows everything. In fact, I argued it on the presumption that the court didn't know anything.” quote by Abraham Lincoln
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“I dared not trust the case on the presumption that the court knows everything. In fact, I argued it on the presumption that the court didn't know anything.”

Abraham Lincoln

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He argued that the court cannot be assumed to know everything, so legal strategy must consider its ignorance.

In simple terms: Legal strategy must account for court's limited knowledge.

Key Takeaway

Plan arguments assuming the court lacks full insight.

Themes

law strategy judicial assumptions critical thinking

Mood

analytical cautious

Type

advice strategic

When to use this quote

  • courtroom preparation
  • law school studies
  • policy advocacy
  • litigation planning

Key Concepts

Legal reasoning court dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you test a court's knowledge before presenting?
  • What risks arise from underestimating judicial expertise?
A Different Perspective

Assuming ignorance may backfire if the court is well‑informed.

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