© 2011 Rey Ty

Yes, we need rules & laws by which to govern & judge our actions & interactions.

© 2011 Rey Ty

But who makes the law?Who benefits?At whose

expense?

© 2011 Rey Ty

I believe in the rule of law.

On the one hand, the rule of law sounds great, as it levels the playing field.

Everyone is treated equally under the law. © 2011 Rey Ty

But on the other hand, law is an instrument of the dominant class, group & faction. They make the law.

The dominant class, group & faction vary from one historical moment to another & from one social context to © 2011 Rey Ty

Does money talk? Does hiring lawyers

from law firms that charge high fees & have connections with economic & political powerhouses give you a better shot at winning a case? Explain. © 2011 Rey Ty

To what extent are there biases in deciding cases? © 2011 Rey Ty

Are there more minorities in prison? If so, why?

© 2011 Rey Ty

Are there more poor people in prison? If so, why?

© 2011 Rey Ty

Presumption of innocence is a basic principle of human rights.

© 2011 Rey Ty

“(1) Everyone charged with a penal offence has the right to be presumed innocent until proved

guilty according to law in a public trial at which he has had all the

guarantees necessary for his defense.” Universal Declaration

of Human Rights

Philosophically, deep down in my consciousness, I truly believe in presumption of innocence.

Don’t ask me for my opinion about legal cases, especially those which are ongoing.

© 2011 Rey Ty

Even if you are innocent, lawyers sometimes advice their clients to plead guilty so that they will get a lighter sentence.

That’s how the law operates!

© 2011 Rey Ty

I’d rather not engage in speculation by which I judge a person guilty today & not guilty tomorrow, based on the facts & opinions that emerge from day to day.

© 2011 Rey Ty

Just because a court rules a person guilty or innocent does not mean that the person is really guilty or innocent.

Decisions are made according to the rule of law.

But, also… © 2011 Rey Ty

Also, remember that I have serious concerns & questions about how the law operates.

What is the relationship between power & the law?

© 2011 Rey Ty

I’d rather not be entangled in the rivalries between elite factions.

What do we gain in supporting one side over another?

© 2011 Rey Ty