What is it that makes us trust our judges? Their independence in office and manner of appointment.
John MarshallNo principle of general law is more universally acknowledged, than the perfect equality of nations. Russia and Geneva have equal rights. It results from this equality, that no one can rightfully impose a rule on another....As no nation can prescribe a rule for others, none can make a law of nations.
John MarshallThe acme of judicial distinction means the ability to look a lawyer straight in the eyes for two hours and not hear a damned word he says.
John MarshallNo political dreamer was ever wild enough to think of breaking down the lines which separate the States and compounding the American people into one common mass.
John MarshallAn unlimited power to tax involves, necessarily, a power to destroy; because there is a limit beyond which no institution and no property can bear taxation.
John MarshallThat the people have an original right to establish, for their future government, such principles as, in their opinion, shall most conduce to their own happiness, is the basis, on which the whole American fabric has been erected.... The principles, therefore, so established, are deemed fundamental. And as the authority, from which they proceed, is supreme ... they are designed to be permanent.... The powers of the legislature are defined, and limited; and that those limits may not be mistaken, or forgotten, the constitution is written.
John Marshall