Cattle Quote by Percy Foreman
““I'm often asked why there is such a great variation among sentences imposed by Texas judges. I can only quote the Texas judge who was asked why a killer sometimes doesn't even get indicted and a cattle thief can get ten years. The judge answered: "A lot of fellows ought to be shot, but we don't have any cows that need stealing.””
About This Quote
Source Courtroom anecdote, 1990s
Texas judges often impose wildly different sentences, highlighting inconsistency and the absurdity of some legal outcomes.
In simple terms: Judges give uneven punishments.
Key Takeaway
Advocate for fair sentencing.
Themes
law
justice
inconsistency
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
legal
inspirational
When to use this quote
- legal reform meetings
- law school debates
- media commentary
Key Concepts
criminal justice
disparities
judicial discretion
Questions to Reflect On
- How can sentencing equity be improved?
- What factors cause judicial disparity?
A Different Perspective
Legal reforms face political and systemic resistance.
