The podcast explores the differences between civil and common law systems, including the presence of juries. It discusses the concept of precedent in common law and the potential consequences of overturning it using examples like Roe v. Wade. The chapter also touches on the EPA's power to regulate greenhouse gas emissions, the Citizens United case, and the role of the First Amendment in protecting corporate speech.
Civil law countries rely on legal codes while common law countries follow precedent.
The presence of juries in civil trials is unique to the United States.
Deep dives
Importance of Common Law and Civil Law Systems
Most countries in the world operate under either the common law or civil law systems. Common law, which originated in England, spread to English-speaking countries such as the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK. On the other hand, civil law, developed in continental Europe, is practiced in countries like Spain, Portugal, and most of Latin America. Understanding the differences between these two legal systems is crucial, especially in the context of climate litigation where over 1,800 cases are currently underway worldwide.
Role of Juries in Civil Cases
The presence of juries in civil trials is unique to the United States and sets it apart from other countries. While many countries, including those following the common law tradition, have juries for criminal trials, civil cases in these countries are primarily decided by judges. In civil law countries, the court often appoints an independent expert to gather and evaluate evidence. In contrast, in the US, parties hire their own experts, leading to battles between opposing experts. The reliance on juries in non-criminal cases is a distinct characteristic of the American legal system.
Importance of Precedent and Legal Codes
Civil law countries have comprehensive legal codes that provide detailed guidelines on how to handle different types of cases. The courts in these countries rely on the legal code to make decisions. In contrast, common law, which is followed in the US and other English-speaking countries, operates on the principle of precedent. This means that court decisions and interpretations of the law shape the legal landscape. The ability to overturn precedents, like in the recent Roe v. Wade case, can have significant implications for various legal and policy issues. The discussion around precedents extends to climate cases, with the Supreme Court set to rule on the EPA's authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions.
In many of the countries where some of the world's largest climate cases are unfolding, the legal system looks very different than it does in the former English colonies. In much of Europe and Latin America, for example, the Roman system dominates and it works very differently, with judges gathering their own evidence in cases. Another key difference? Reliance on precedent in common law countries like the U.S. ... a topic that's becoming more important to understand every week.