National Law Day 2015 – One’s Right to Question

Today we celebrate National Law Day and it brings to me many memories of why I decided to attend law school as a young man.  While growing up in Galveston County, Texas I was able to see many different aspects of our small community such as the elections, the court system, and our peace officers at work.  Many times I asked myself…”Why was it so?” or ” Who made that decision?” There were, of course, many other questions.  Many of the members of my community had their individual ideas of why and how things should work.  We are taught that each person has the right to ask questions, express their opinions, and, of course, to try and implement peaceful change.  This very important right still exists today.

But what of the questions?  How does one know what questions are germane?  To know the answer to this question, one must know the issues and therefore, the law.  Our legal system gives us a framework within which to define the issues (our legislature), and to ask the questions.   We obtain answers to the questions and have legal recourse, through a variety of ways, including the right to ask our elected representatives, to elect those representatives, and of course, the ever important right to petition our Courts.

Yesterday, our President issued a Proclamation whereby he made today, May 1, 2015, National Law Day 2015.

A portion of his statement reads:

“Throughout the world, the rule of law is central to the promise of a safe, free, and just society. Respect for and adherence to the rule of law is the premise upon which the United States was founded, and it has been a cornerstone of my Presidency. America’s commitment to this fundamental principle sustains our democracy — it guides our progress, helps to ensure all people receive fair treatment, and protects our Government of, by, and for the people. This Law Day, we celebrate a milestone in the extraordinary history of the rule of law by marking the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta. Centuries ago, when kings, emperors, and warlords reigned over much of the world, it was this extraordinary document — agreed to by the King of England in 1215 — that first spelled out the rights and liberties of man. The ideals of the Magna Carta inspired America’s forefathers to define and protect many of the rights expressed in our founding documents, which we continue to cherish today. The Magna Carta has also provided a framework for constitutional democracies throughout the world, and my Administration is committed to supporting good governance based upon the rule of law. Around the globe, we support strong civil institutions, independent judiciaries, and open government — because the rule of force must give way to the rule of law. For more than two centuries, we have witnessed these values drive opportunity and prosperity here in the United States, and as President, I will continue to work to bolster our systems of justice and advance efforts that do the same overseas. America is and always has been a nation of laws. Our institutions of justice are vital to securing the promise of our country, and they are bound up with the values and beliefs that have united peoples through the ages. The United States and our citizens are inextricably linked to all those around the world doing the hard work of strengthening the rule of law — joined in common purpose by our mutual interest in building freer, fairer, more just societies.”

During the course of trying many trials over the past 34 years, I have oft heard the Judge tell our juries, that, while our system is not perfect, it is the very best in the world.  I agree with this and consider myself lucky to represent our clients and ask for them “Who, What, Why, When and Where?

Respectfully submitted:

Thomas Martin Fountain

The three principals of Fountain Bruce & Mellencamp, PLLC have over 80 years of combined experience. We have received the highest rating of AV Preeminent for Ethics and Ability by the oldest Peer Reviewed Company in the United States and enjoy an unparalleled track record at the Courthouse representing our clients when they need us the most.

For more information see our Website at www.HoustonTrialLaw.com or call (281) 296-6500.

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