This event, featuring a discussion with former constitutional judges, provides a unique opportunity to gain personal insights into the practice of constitutional adjudication. Going beyond the formal study of legal doctrine, we will explore the human dimension of life on the bench. The discussion will focus on the personal reflections of these esteemed jurists, addressing the challenges, pressures, and profound responsibilities that come with interpreting a nation's fundamental law. We are honored to welcome Professor Dieter Grimm, a distinguished former judge of the German Federal Constitutional Court and a towering figure in constitutional law, as the inaugural guest of our event series. Professor Grimm’s tenure on the court was marked by a profound commitment to intellectual rigor and a deep understanding of the delicate balance between constitutional principles and the realities of modern society. This is a rare chance to hear how individual perspectives and experiences shape the monumental decisions made at the German Federal Constitutional Court. We'll delve into topics often absent from academic texts, such as the personal toll of difficult cases, the dynamics of judicial deliberation, and the evolution of a judge's philosophy while serving.  Ultimately, this event offers a candid view from the bench, enriching our understanding of the constitutional court's role by highlighting the experiences of the individuals who serve within it.

 

Guest: Dieter Grimm – Professor (emer.) of Law and former Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court. He served as Rector of the Wissenschaftskolleg in Berlin (2001–2007) and held visiting professorships at universities worldwide, including NYU, Harvard, and Yale.

Date: 4 November 2025, 5:30 pm

Venue: Budapest, 1113 Tas vezér utca 3-7., Kinizsi Pál Room

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MCC students can earn credit for actively participating in the event, provided they read the required chapters and paper(s) and prepare three questions for the Q&A session of the research seminar.

Questions related to the required reading must be submitted to Kálmán Pócza at pocza.kalman@mcc.hu by 11:00 PM on 2 November, 2025.

Required Reading: Please contact Kálmán Pócza to obtain the electronic version of the paper.

Submission Deadline: 2 November 2025, 11:00 PM

 

Previous Research Seminars