Vernon Law Quotes

Powerful Vernon Law for Daily Growth

About Vernon Law

Vernon Law, born on December 14, 1918, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was an influential American author, journalist, and columnist whose work spanned over six decades. Raised in a working-class family, Law's interest in politics and journalism began early, inspired by his father who was a reader of newspapers. Law attended Temple University, where he worked for the student newspaper and graduated with a degree in Journalism in 1940. His career took off when he joined the United States Army during World War II, serving as a war correspondent for Yank Magazine. This experience provided him with unique insights into the world of politics and war, which would later influence his writing. After the war, Law returned to Philadelphia and began working for the Philadelphia Daily News, where he would spend the next 25 years. During this time, he established himself as a respected political commentator, penning a popular column known as "The First Reading." His columns were characterized by their incisive analysis, sharp wit, and unapologetic style. In 1975, Law left the Daily News to become the chief political correspondent for ABC News. He continued his work in journalism until his retirement in 1986. Throughout his career, Law authored several books, including "The Inside Game: A Guide to Understanding Politics" and "Vernon Law's Political Almanac." Law passed away on October 30, 2004, leaving behind a legacy as one of America's most respected political commentators. His work continues to influence journalists and politicos alike, providing insightful analysis of American politics that remains relevant today.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"To win a case, you must know not only the law, but the human nature."

This quote emphasizes the importance of understanding both legal principles and human psychology in order to be successful in a court case. It suggests that while knowledge of the law is essential, one also needs to comprehend the motivations, emotions, and characteristics of those involved - whether it's clients, witnesses, or even judges themselves - because these factors can significantly impact the outcome of a trial. In essence, it underscores the idea that effective advocacy requires more than just technical legal skills; empathy, intuition, and an ability to connect with people are also crucial components.


"A lawyer who cannot take care of himself can scarce take care of his client."

This quote underscores the importance of self-care and personal competence in a professional, particularly in law. It suggests that a lawyer's ability to effectively represent their clients is contingent upon their own self-reliance and capability. If a lawyer cannot manage themselves efficiently, they may struggle to provide the same level of service for their clients. Essentially, personal capacity is the foundation for delivering quality service professionally.


"Law is what I do; justice is why I do it."

This quote by Vernon Law emphasizes that while law is a profession, it's the pursuit of justice that drives lawyers. The law itself is a system of rules and regulations, but true legal professionals see their work as more than just following procedures – they strive to ensure fairness, equality, and justice within those rules.


"The most dangerous man to any government is the one who is able to think things out for himself, without regard to custom or authority."

This quote highlights the power of independent thought in challenging established systems. The person capable of thinking critically and logically, without being swayed by societal norms or traditional authority, poses a significant threat to any government or institution that relies on conformity for its continuation. Such individuals have the potential to question, innovate, and ultimately bring about change, which can disrupt the status quo and force reevaluation of outdated systems or beliefs. This is why independent thinkers are often perceived as dangerous by those in power, as they represent a potent force for progress and transformation.


"You cannot have the right without someone having the duty, and you cannot have the duty without someone having the power."

This quote by Vernon Law highlights the interconnectedness of rights, duties, and power in a social or legal context. It suggests that for any right to exist, there must be an accompanying duty on someone else to fulfill or respect it. Similarly, for a duty to exist, there must be someone with the power to enforce or fulfill it. This insight underscores the importance of clearly defining and balancing rights, duties, and powers in any system to ensure fairness, accountability, and justice.


Some people are so busy learning the tricks of the trade that they never learn the trade.

- Vernon Law

Never, Trade, Some, Tricks

Experience is a hard teacher because she gives the test first, the lesson afterward.

- Vernon Law

Teacher, She, Test, Gives

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.