Long-time readers know I value most lawyers as being one step below mafia hit men. (Unfortunately, lawyers are blinded to their own banality by the respect given to their education.) And, I respect courts only because they command little men with big guns. But, sometimes I do appreciate our courts, at least a little.
As part of the economic restructuring in the wake of the 2008/9 global financial crisis, Portugal was required by the EU, IMF, and various refinancing covenants to shrink government spending. To their credit, the elected leaders of Portugal made many painful decisions and really tried, but the public unions took them to court. Their high court ruled that the government could not cut spending, suggesting they raise taxes instead. Now, can you imagine the U.S. Supreme Court making such a decision?
So, the next time you agree with me about our legal system, just remember . . . it could be worse!
As part of the economic restructuring in the wake of the 2008/9 global financial crisis, Portugal was required by the EU, IMF, and various refinancing covenants to shrink government spending. To their credit, the elected leaders of Portugal made many painful decisions and really tried, but the public unions took them to court. Their high court ruled that the government could not cut spending, suggesting they raise taxes instead. Now, can you imagine the U.S. Supreme Court making such a decision?
So, the next time you agree with me about our legal system, just remember . . . it could be worse!
