Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1986
Publication Information
4 J. L. & Religion 179 (1986)
Abstract
God has no use for procedural rules since He knows the full truth and is able to exercise absolute justice simultaneously alongside complete mercy. This paper discusses the religious significance of legal rules of procedure in light of this truth. It finds that since we, unlike God, are inherently fallible, we are forced to implement procedures in the legal pursuit of our goals of truth, justice, and mercy. These procedures remain imperfect in implementing these goals, as compromises must often be made between competing values such as mercy on one hand and justice on the other. Nevertheless, though legal procedure is imperfect, it is meant to achieve these goals as best we can. It is important for us to avoid treating procedure in such a way as to turn it into an end rather than a means. God calls us to emulate Him by using or resisting procedure in a way that comports with human dignity.
Recommended Citation
Robert E. Rodes,
Religion and Procedure,
4 J. L. & Religion 179 (1986).
Available at:
https://scholarship.law.nd.edu/law_faculty_scholarship/742
Comments
Reprinted with permission of Journal of Law and Religion.