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Constitution Quote by Charles Evans Hughes

“We are under a Constitution, but the Constitution is what the judges say it is, and the judiciary is the safeguard of our property and our liberty and our property under the Constitution.” quote by Charles Evans Hughes
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“We are under a Constitution, but the Constitution is what the judges say it is, and the judiciary is the safeguard of our property and our liberty and our property under the Constitution.”

Charles Evans Hughes

About This Quote

Source Speech: Judicial Philosophy, 1930

The Constitution’s meaning is shaped by judicial interpretation, which protects property and liberty.

In simple terms: Judges define constitutional rights.

Key Takeaway

Support an independent judiciary.

Themes

law constitution judiciary

Mood

serious thoughtful

Type

legal political

When to use this quote

  • court decisions
  • civil rights
  • property disputes
  • policy debates

Key Concepts

legal theory interpretation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How should judges balance law and politics?
  • What safeguards ensure impartiality?
A Different Perspective

Judicial power can be politicized.

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