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“The task of a judge is not to make the law - it is to apply the law.” quote by Sonia Sotomayor
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“The task of a judge is not to make the law - it is to apply the law.”

Sonia Sotomayor

About This Quote

A judge's role is to interpret and enforce existing statutes, not to create new legislation.

In simple terms: Judges enforce, not legislate.

Key Takeaway

Judicial restraint

Themes

law judiciary government authority process

Mood

respectful serious

Type

maxim principle

When to use this quote

  • court rulings
  • legal disputes
  • policy implementation

Key Concepts

separation of powers rule of law

Practical Applications

  • legal analysis
  • judicial training

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does judicial restraint affect democratic accountability?
  • When should courts intervene in legislative gaps?
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