Introduction
Read markers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 to learn more about the cartoon.
This 1903 illustration by S.D. Ehrhart is titled "Due process of law" (Library of Congress).
- The Hall of Justice is at the top of the hill or mountaintop. It it the goal to reach justice; however, our court system has its rules, procedures, and structure that can make the journey long.
- The last two rocks or obstacles say, "Injunction" and "Stays". An injunction is a court order prohibiting a particular act that might cause irreparable damage. A stay is a court order to delay or postpone a trail.
- Did you notice the lady's crown says "Law"? Why is she holding a sword? The scale in her hand has traditionally been used to represent justice or a fair balance in our system its citizens.
- "Change of Venue", which is written on this rock, means the trial is moved to a different geographical location. Again, a change of venue can be important, but can also slow down the process.
- This rock or obstacle says "Appeals". You will learn about the appeals process in our federal court system. Obviously, the cartoonist is suggesting this process can be an obstacle or makes our justice system take longer.
- The first big rock says, "Certificate of Reasonable Doubt". Reasonable doubt is one of the obstacles lawyers face in our justice system. Reasonable doubt must be proven.
- Why is she riding a snail? What do you think the snail represents? Did you notice how steep the hill is the snail is trying to climb? Do you think that has any significance to the meaning of the cartoon?
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