Constitution Quote by Lamar S. Smith
“Judges should interpret the law, not make it.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Congressional Remarks, 2015
Advocates that judges should apply existing law, not create new policy.
In simple terms: Judges must interpret, not legislate.
Key Takeaway
Respect judicial role.
Themes
law
judiciary
separation of powers
Mood
formal
serious
Type
legal
political
When to use this quote
- court decisions
- law reform
- policy debates
Key Concepts
judicial restraint
legislative intent
constitutional law
Questions to Reflect On
- How to balance interpretation with evolving society?
- When is judicial activism justified?
A Different Perspective
Rigid interpretation can hinder progress.
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