Alone Quote by Sandra Day O'Connor
“Most high courts in other nations do not have discretion, such as we enjoy, in selecting the cases that the high court reviews. Our court is virtually alone in the amount of discretion it has.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Judicial Conference, 1995
U.S. high courts uniquely have discretionary case selection, unlike many foreign counterparts.
In simple terms: American courts can choose which cases to hear, unlike most other nations.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the power and responsibility of judicial discretion.
Themes
law
judiciary
discretion
comparative law
policy
Mood
analytical
formal
Type
legal
educational
When to use this quote
- appeal filings
- law school debates
- policy reviews
Key Concepts
constitutional law
judicial philosophy
court administration
Questions to Reflect On
- How should courts balance discretion with fairness?
- What reforms could reduce discretionary excess?
A Different Perspective
Discretion can lead to inconsistency or bias.
![“Forgiveness is the best part of valor...Discretion is easy. It's finding the courage to forgive yourself and others that is hard. [Acheron]” quote by Sherrilyn Kenyon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c73/sherrilyn-kenyon-25_courage_forgiveness-is-the-best-part-of-valor-di_34880.jpg)
