An abusive, unlawful practice of the English courts from the 15th to 17th centuries was so rampant and unfair that protections against it were written into our U.S. Constitution.
This hated and feared practice took place in the Star Chamber.
The creators of the Star Chamber described it as a tool to stamp out corruption and seek justice for those in English society who were so powerful that no ordinary court would ever find them guilty.
In practice, it was used to punish political enemies without the constraints of the law or the prying eyes of the public.
Sound familiar?
Our Founding...