Americans are taught from an early age to follow the law. Ignorance is no excuse; neither is personal opinion or preference. This is our obligation, and part of the social contract we make with fellow citizens. But as this new year begins, it's also appropriate to focus on the obligation the courts have to us, as numerous cases involving former president and current candidate Donald Trump work their way through the courts. Judges are largely permitted to set their own timetables for their cases and when they will decide them. Judges are only human, and courts' resources are limited. No one should expect courts to move at lightning speed all the time, especially when they are working to guarantee all litigants due process. But there are times that call for decision-making with deliberate speed, and we are living in them. Citizens have a right to know the outcome of criminal cases involving a leading candidate. As recent polls have demonstrated, many Americans who plan to vote for Trump in 2024 say that if he is convicted of a crime, their vote would change. If the polling holds up, the outcome in key states could shift. Either way — conviction or acquittal — Americans are entitled to know the outcome of as many of these matters as possible before they vote. This is a preview of Joyce Vance's latest article. Read the full column here. |
