Constitution Quote by Francis Bacon
““Judges ought to remember that their office is to interpret law, and not to make law, or give law.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Advancement of Learning, 1620
Judges should interpret existing law, not create or impose new statutes.
In simple terms: Judges must apply, not write, the law.
Key Takeaway
Respect the limits of judicial authority.
Themes
law
judiciary
interpretation
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
philosophical
legal
When to use this quote
- court decisions
- legislative drafting
- constitutional debates
Key Concepts
legal theory
separation of powers
Questions to Reflect On
- Should judges ever fill legislative gaps?
- How to balance tradition with progress?
A Different Perspective
Strict interpretation can ignore evolving societal needs.
![“Judges ought above all to remember the conclusion of the Roman Twelve Tables :The supreme law of all is the weal [weatlh/ well-being] of the people.” quote by Francis Bacon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9cd/francis-bacon-297_conclusion_judges-ought-above-all-to-remember-the-c_2788217.jpg)
![“Next came the Patent laws. These began in England in 1624; and, in this country, with the adoption of our constitution. Before then [these?], any man might instantly use what another had invented; so that the inventor had no special advantage from his own invention. The patent system changed this…” quote by Abraham Lincoln](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/449/abraham-lincoln-88_adoption_next-came-the-patent-laws-these-began-in_1828.jpg)
