As lawyers, our primary duty is to uphold the law, irrespective of our personal stance on any given legislation. We are privy to the inner workings and subtleties of the legal system, which occasionally brings us face-to-face with the questionable law or two.
A discussion has been initiated to bring forth what can be termed as “*the* worst law”. Is it qualified immunity, a doctrine that apparently exonerates police from most kinds of misconduct, resulting from a clerical error of the past? Or perhaps the immunity of the gun industry, which arguably exacerbates the American firearm crisis?
It could also be the perceived injustice of the felony murder rule, or the existence of mandatory minimums that thwart judicial discretion. The list continues to include immigration laws, the electoral college, and even power grabs of localities curtailing something as innocent as trick or treating based on age.
You are invited to share your nominations for the most nonsensical laws. The winning ‘dumbest law’ may find a place in Above the Law Alum Elie Mystal’s new book, ‘Bad Laws’. Email us with your proposals or text us (646-820-8477).
Consequently, a poll will be held to officially name the law deemed most foolish. We greatly value the insights of the legal community, recognising the wisdom and critiques that stem from daily interactions with the legal system.
Elie Mystal’s book, ‘Allow Me To Retort: A Black Guy’s Guide to the Constitution’, is available for those interested in a discerning exploration of the Constitution from a unique perspective.
For more information and continued discourse, visit Above The Law and participate in the ongoing discussions about the quality and efficacy of our existing legal ordinances.