The phrase "The law is an ass" originates in Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist, when the character Mr. Bumble is informed that "the law supposes that your wife acts under your direction".
In Australian the phrase refers to most decisions made by the legal system. Drunk drivers who kill people get off without a custodial sentence. There is a very popular sentence in Australia the "Suspended Sentence" this means no jail time. If you misbehave during that time there is a theoretical penalty but they rarely get invoked. Basically the sentence is a joke.
Instead let's make it all a lot easier. Get rid of the suspended sentence altogether and while they are at it revoke the laws that people break to get one. Stop using terms like "maximum sentence" no one ever gets one.
The role of a lawyer has devolved into that of a person who takes away justice, or fights against justice. The role of a judge has been subverted by special interest groups and governments who don't want to put any effort into dealing with the problem. They ensure that offenders get minimum sentences and as soon as one doesn't they are vilified.
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