As members of the legal profession we understand that independent courts and impartial judges are integral to our system of checks and balances, and are critical to ensuring that disputes are resolved peacefully according to law, free from political pressure or interference.

Why Judicial Independence is Critical

Independent courts are where disputes are resolved fairly, according to law—not political whim. If we allow courts to be ignored or undermined, we jeopardize the freedoms that protect the lives, liberty, and property of all Americans.

The current administration has already defied or delayed compliance with court orders in high-profile cases like State of New York, et al. v. Donald J. Trump, et al and AIDS Vaccine Advocacy Coalition, et al. v. US Department of State. On March 5, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled the administration must follow lower court orders, but the danger of future defiance or avoidance looms large.

The Stakes Are High

Without judicial independence, the rule of law is at risk, and the fundamental principles of democracy are undermined. If judges are subject to political pressure or fear of retaliation, their ability to make fair, unbiased decisions is compromised. Without an independent judiciary, we also risk laws being ignored or selectively enforced, creating a system of inequality where the law is no longer a reliable protector of justice. Ultimately, the courts would no longer serve as an effective check on government power.

What We Are Doing

• The ABA and the bar association community have released statements about the importance of an independent judiciary.

• ABA Task Force is organizing a webinar with legal experts on March 25 @ 2pm related to reinforcing judicial authority and identifying how individual lawyers can engage on this important matter of vital importance to the legal system. Please join us and share with others in your network.

REGISTER

What You Can Do

We need every attorney to take a stand for the judiciary—both personally and professionally. Here's how you can help:

• Speak up: Write op-eds or blog posts that advocate for judicial independence and call out any attacks on the courts.

• Get involved: Organize with fellow lawyers to identify local actions supporting the role of judges and judicial orders.

• Challenge unjust calls for impeachment: Speak out against efforts to remove judges simply for ruling against policy preferences.

• Counter dangerous rhetoric: Push back against public statements that undermine judicial authority and the rule of law.

• Mobilize others: Encourage colleagues to contact Congressional representatives to reinforce the importance of judicial independence.

• Visit and share our website www.democracy-taskforce.org for additional information and resources.

Please share with anyone you think might be interested in our work, and don't hesitate to contact us with any suggestions or questions.