Judicial Independence Resolutions
"Bar Association Response To Unjust Criticism Of Judges: New
Jersey Bar Association Project
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the New Jersey State Bar Association has adopted an
official procedure for responding to unjust criticism of judges, their
decisions and the judiciary in general: and
WHEREAS, the independence of the judiciary is the cornerstone of
our justice system, which is the firmest pillar of good government; and
WHEREAS, unfair attacks on judges, or the judiciary in general,
which seek to influence judges’ decisions and undermine public
confidence in the administration of justice, may shake the system and
democracy itself; and
WHEREAS, ethical rules of judicial conduct prevent judges
themselves from speaking up; and
WHEREAS, the procedure adopted by the New Jersey State Bar
Association has determined that it is up to the organized bar to respond
and promote the ability of the courts to dispense justice fairly and meet
the threat to judicial independence;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the American Judges
Association through its Board of Governors, that this Association hereby
commends the New Jersey State Bar Association, its officers and members
for their courage and exemplary action to protect our democratic system of
justice; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this Resolution be sent
to New Jersey State Bar Association President, Cynthia M. Jacob, as an
expression of our praise and gratitude; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this Resolution also be
sent to all the Presidents of the state, provincial and territorial bar
associations, as an encouragement to them to act similarly in defending
judicial independence and the integrity and credibility of our system of
justice.
Adopted April 1997
Judge Jeffrey Rosinek, President
AJA Resolutions Committee
Gregory Barlow
Paul Beighle
Seymore Brown
Ann Pugh
Ira J. Raab, Chair
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