On the record
The trial by jury, be it observed, was the only real barrier interposed by them against absolute despotism.
Said by
Lysander Spooner
Source
gutenberg.orgLysander Spooner: “The trial by jury, be it observed, was the only real barrier interposed by them against absolute despotism.”
Editor's note · Context
Spooner argues that the trial by jury serves as the only effective barrier against absolute despotism, underscoring its significance in protecting freedoms.
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More from Lysander Spooner
Yet the codes of the most celebrated kings are very small, and were little more than compilations of immemorial customs.
In nearly or quite all the States of the United States the juries are illegal, for one or the other of the same reasons that make the juries in England illegal.
But there is no reason why a judge should have the power of punishing, for contempt, any more than for any other offence.
Why should they not have such an administration of justice as they desire, and can understand?