On Tax Daniel Hemel of NYU School of Law
Apr 23, 2024
Daniel Hemel, a Professor at NYU School of Law, dives into his unexpected journey into tax law academia. He shares reflections on pivotal law school moments that shaped his passion and commitment to teaching. The conversation explores evolving capital taxation dynamics and welfare initiatives, spotlighting the impact of capital gains rates on economic policy. Hemel also offers advice to early-career lawyers and emphasizes the importance of balancing professional ambitions with personal passions for a fulfilling life.
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Early Law Interest Spark
- Daniel Hemel's mother planted the idea of being a lawyer at age five by correcting his misconception that men were the only lawyers. - His interest shifted from journalism to law after covering a Supreme Court case involving Harvard Law School.
Tax Law and Distributive Justice
- Tax law uniquely addresses distributive justice, unlike areas like tort law where wealth-based claims aren't legitimate. - This makes tax law inherently linked to philosophical debates about how society should allocate resources.
Clerkship Lessons on Judging
- Daniel Hemel clerked for three judges including Justice Elena Kagan on the Supreme Court. - He learned judges care deeply about real-world consequences, not just mechanical application of law.