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“Constitutionally you can't have a law go retroactively.” quote by Maria Ressa
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“Constitutionally you can't have a law go retroactively.”

Maria Ressa

About This Quote

Source Interview: "The Rule of Law" on PBS NewsHour, 2022

Laws should not be applied retroactively because it undermines legal certainty and fairness.

In simple terms: Retroactive laws are unfair.

Key Takeaway

Support non‑retroactive legislation.

Themes

law justice fairness policy rights

Mood

thoughtful cautious analytical

Type

jurisprudential ethical

When to use this quote

  • legislative drafting
  • court rulings
  • human rights advocacy

Key Concepts

ex post facto legal predictability rule of law

Questions to Reflect On

  • Should any exceptions to non‑retroactivity be allowed?
  • How to balance justice with legal certainty?
A Different Perspective

Retroactive laws can be politically motivated and destabilizing.

4.6 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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