Law

Justice David Souter: A Former Supreme Court Employee Remembers

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When I awoke on Friday, May 9, 2025, the first thing I heard was that retired Justice David Souter had died. Of all the public figures I have met or worked with, he was in many respects, the most impressive. Even now it is hard to believe he is gone. David Souter’s Judicial Philosophy Justice Souter was known for his distinctive judicial philosophy, which embraced a common law approach to interpretation. This approach allowed for both precedent and progress in the law, a balance that characterized much of his work on the Supreme Court. He … Read more

Five Issues in Front of the Justices

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This week, the justices of the Supreme Court are convening for their final private conference of the year, where they will deliberate on a series of significant legal issues that could have far-reaching implications. Among the topics under consideration are matters related to the Second Amendment, climate change litigation, and the intersection of government authority with personal rights. This overview will provide insights into five notable issues currently facing the court. Second Amendment Protections The Second Amendment remains a focal point of legal discourse this term, with multiple cases slated for review. The court will … Read more

Justice David Souter: A Former Supreme Court Employee Remembers

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When I awoke on Friday, May 9, 2025, the first thing I heard was that retired Justice David Souter had died. Of all the public figures I have met or worked with, he was in many respects, the most impressive. Even now it is hard to believe he is gone. The Legacy of Justice Souter Justice David Souter’s judicial philosophy was deeply rooted in a common law approach to interpretation, allowing for both precedent and progress in the law. He embraced the qualities of a progressive and a Burkean gradualist, which were evident in his … Read more

Relist Rodeo: Firearm Restrictions, Searches Incident to Arrest, DNA Evidence, and ‘Clearly Established’ Law

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The Supreme Court’s relist process has garnered significant attention, especially as the Court prepares for its upcoming term. With a pressing calendar and a multitude of cases awaiting review, the relist phenomenon serves as a critical mechanism for revisiting contentious legal issues. Among the topics currently under consideration are firearm restrictions, searches incident to arrest, and the implications of DNA evidence in legal proceedings. This segment will delve into these pivotal areas, emphasizing their relevance within the broader context of jurisprudence. Firearm Restrictions and Their Legal Challenges One of the most pressing issues in the … Read more