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The Founding Fathers wished to establish a judicial system that limited political power while safeguarding individual rights. Much of what was eventually established in the U.S. was influenced by the British judiciary and legal practices. Common law is based on legal precedent and rooted in the principle of stare decisis - "to stand by things decided."
Magna Carta (1215):
The law applies equally to everyone, including the monarch
No individual could be deprived of life, liberty, or property without lawful judgement by their peers or the courts
Basis for civil liberties and right to a fair trial by jury
Principle of habeas corpus - government must provide reasoning for criminal charges and imprisonment
Transformed English monarchy from absolute power toward a constitutional monarchy
The Adversarial Process:
Two parties present cases before a neutral judge or jury
Relies on party-driven evidence, strict procedural rules, and cross examination, to reach a fair verdict
Judge's role is limited, acting not as a fact-finder but as an umpire, ensuring both sides adhere to legal rules and standards
The burden of proof lies in the prosecution to prove defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt
----> These foundational legal concepts directly influenced the U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights, and state constitutions. Established the principles of limiting arbitrary power and protecting individual liberties from government abuse.
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