The Declaration of Independence, Boston Tea Party, and Your Right to Jury Trial

The Boston Tea Party was a political protest on December 16, 1773. Colonists objected to the Tea Act because they believed that it violated their rights to “No taxation without representation.” The British government responded harshly and the episode escalated into the American Revolution.

The Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, addressed the problem of taxation. What many people don’t realize is the very next grievance in the Declaration after taxation addresses the right to trial by jury. It reads, “For depriving us in many cases, of the benefits of trial by jury.”

Over the years, big corporations and well-financed lobbyists have created the “myth” of a need for tort reform (think “alternative facts”) and a one-size-fits-all approach and ceiling on claims caused by the wrongdoing of others. When this happens, victims are denied the right to a jury trial for individual wrongs causing unique harm to innocent victims.

Most people are not aware of how their rights are slowly being taken away from them by self-serving politicians and big business. Our recommendation is to be diligent and stay current.

In this post, Senior Partner, Mitch Jackson, shares his thoughts about why he and his partner, Lisa Wilson, are honored to protect your rights as trial lawyers.