US presidential immunity ruling: ‘With fear for our democracy, I dissent’, supreme court judge says

Justice Sonia Sotomayor: 'Let the president violate the law... Let him use his official power for evil ends... that is the majority’s message today.' Photograph: Erin Schaff/New York TimesThe underlying sense that November’s US presidential election presents a stark choice between a democratic and autocratic future was reflected in a stunning supreme court decision on Monday that found presidents were immune from prosecution for “official” acts.

While the court did not grant the absolute immunity sought by the former president, its finding by a six-three majority – on conservative-liberal lines – expanded the notional presidential suite of powers to a degree that astonished some legal scholars. But the most striking response was that of a member of the court, Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who signed off with a blistering critique of the finding of her six conservative colleagues: “With fear for our democracy, I dissent.

The 118-page document is sufficiently complex and open to interpretation to ensure that legal scholars will be busy for months and years. Its immediate impact makes it almost certain that Mr Trump will not face criminal proceedings ahead of the November election. If he is returned to office, he can order the department of justice to drop all federal charges against him.

Law Law Latest News, Law Law Headlines

Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.

Michael Lynn granted free legal aid to appeal convictionFormer solicitor and property developer Michael Lynn has been granted legal aid to appeal his conviction and sentence for stealing over €18 million from numerous financial institutions, after telling a court that he 'has no means'.
Source: rtenews - 🏆 1. / 99 Read more »

Michael Lynn granted legal aid to appeal theft convictions after arguing he ‘has no means’Former solicitor jailed in February after being convicted of stealing €18m from six financial institutions
Source: IrishTimes - 🏆 3. / 98 Read more »

Freedom of information: Some public bodies ‘over-reliant’ on external legal advice over requestsGrowing trend of contracting out FOI request decision-making is concerning, says information comissioner
Source: IrishTimes - 🏆 3. / 98 Read more »

Dutch extends trial of legal cannabis to eight new citiesAn experiment enabling cannabis smokers in the Netherlands to light up legally has been expanded to eight new cities, as authorities extend a trial that aims to curb criminality and social problems.
Source: rtenews - 🏆 1. / 99 Read more »

Aer Lingus’s legal threats sparked looming strike, pilots claimRelations between Aer Lingus and its pilots sour further on day that passengers learn which flights will be cancelled next week
Source: IrishTimes - 🏆 3. / 98 Read more »

Ratcliffe makes feelings clear on Man City's legal action against Premier LeagueManchester United part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has given his verdict on Manchester City's bid to abolish the Premier League's Associated Party Transaction rules
Source: IrishMirror - 🏆 4. / 98 Read more »