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We the People

A Conversation With Justice Neil Gorsuch on ‘The Human Toll of Too Much Law’

Sep 20, 2024
Join Justice Neil Gorsuch, a U.S. Supreme Court associate, and Janie Nitze, his former law clerk, as they delve into their book, Over Ruled. They discuss how excessive laws impact lives, spotlighting personal stories like John Yates, a fisherman ensnared in federal regulations. The conversation addresses overcriminalization through the tragic tales of Aaron Schwartz and Isis Brantley, urging for legal reform. They highlight the importance of civic engagement and education in nurturing democracy and protecting individual rights.
01:09:08

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Justice Gorsuch argues that excessively complex laws often result in dire consequences for ordinary Americans, undermining their rights and wellbeing.
  • Co-author Janie Nitze emphasizes the importance of individual narratives in highlighting how legal principles directly affect citizens' lives and liberties.

Deep dives

The Personal Journey of Justice Gorsuch

Justice Gorsuch's motivation for writing his book stems from his experiences as a judge, where he observed ordinary Americans facing severe consequences due to overly complex laws. He shared poignant examples, including a veteran denied benefits despite following the law and an immigrant forced to spend years abroad after changes in legal interpretations. Through these stories, he expresses a deep concern for those caught in the web of regulations that often seem disconnected from common sense. Gorsuch emphasizes the need for a legal system that protects rather than harms individuals, highlighting the human cost of excessive regulation.

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