One aspect of appellate judging is we have to give reasons…
“One aspect of appellate judging is we have to give reasons for all of our decisions. And when you sit down and try to write it out, sometimes you find that your first judgment wasn't the right one.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Judges must explain every decision, and drafting can reveal earlier errors, prompting revision.
In simple terms: Judges need to justify rulings; writing can expose mistakes.
Key Takeaway
Write decisions to uncover and correct errors.
Themes
judicial responsibility
reflection
accountability
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
legal
reflective
When to use this quote
- court opinions
- law school teaching
- appeal briefs
Key Concepts
legal reasoning
self‑correction
Questions to Reflect On
- How does drafting influence judicial honesty?
- What mechanisms ensure accurate reasoning?
A Different Perspective
Writing may be constrained by time, limiting thorough self‑review.