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Aspect Quote by Ruth Bader Ginsburg

“One aspect of appellate judging is we have to give reasons for all of our decisions. And when you sit down and try to write it out, sometimes you find that your first judgment wasn't the right one.” quote by Ruth Bader Ginsburg
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“One aspect of appellate judging is we have to give reasons for all of our decisions. And when you sit down and try to write it out, sometimes you find that your first judgment wasn't the right one.”

Ruth Bader Ginsburg

About This Quote

Source Speech: Remarks on Judicial Reasoning, 1995

Judges must explain every decision, and drafting can reveal earlier errors, prompting revision.

In simple terms: Judges need to justify rulings; writing can expose mistakes.

Key Takeaway

Write decisions to uncover and correct errors.

Themes

judicial responsibility reflection accountability

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

legal reflective

When to use this quote

  • court opinions
  • law school teaching
  • appeal briefs

Key Concepts

legal reasoning self‑correction

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does drafting influence judicial honesty?
  • What mechanisms ensure accurate reasoning?
A Different Perspective

Writing may be constrained by time, limiting thorough self‑review.

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