National Classics Week Packet National Classics Week Packet | Page 17

April 22

Written by NJCL President Nolan Heinrich

Famously , in the landmark Marbury v . Madison case in 1803 , the Supreme Court decided that its ability to order Writs of Mandamus was unconstitutional . Mandamus comes from mando and literally means “ we command / order .”

In addition to legal terms , Latin phrases and mottos are still used throughout American society . Annuit cœptis , Novus ordo seclorum , and e pluribus unum all appear on the dollar bill . Many state mottos also feature famous Latin quotes ( and California even has a Greek motto ). Some Latin words are used so frequently in English that people are unaware of their origin . Phrases like alibi , status quo , affidavit , and impromptu live on past the Latin language .

Ultimately , Latin has played a significant role in the development of modern American law . Many legal terms and phrases used today have their origins in the Roman empire and its language . The use of Latin in law is a reminder of the rich history and tradition that informs the practice of law in the United States today .

Activities Hold a mock trial of a Roman court case ( or make your own up !) Host an etymology contest of who can find the most words derived from Latin from a given English text Create a Latin motto for your local chapter