In simple terms, this quote suggests that once a law acts as a contract and individuals have acquired certain rights under it, those rights cannot be taken away even if the law itself is later repealed or changed. This principle underscores the importance of respecting agreements established by laws, ensuring that legal protections are upheld.
The deeper meaning of this statement reveals broader implications for governance and societal expectations. When a government passes a law, individuals often rely on that law to protect their rights and establish certain obligations between them and the state. If such a law is later repealed without addressing the vested interests it created, it can lead to instability and distrust in legal systems. The quote emphasizes the need for continuity and predictability in laws to maintain order and ensure justice. It also highlights the importance of considering potential repercussions when changing or abolishing existing legal frameworks.
John Marshall was an influential American jurist who served as the fourth Chief Justice of the United States from 1801 until his death in 1835. Known for strengthening the federal judiciary and expanding its power, Marshall's influence on U.S. law is significant, particularly through landmark decisions that defined the relationship between state and federal governments and established key principles of constitutional interpretation.
