JD Chair's Message

I first want to thank ABA President Bill Bay and President Elect Michelle Behnke along with the ABA Executive Staff for their amazing leadership since January 20, 2025. It was wonderful to attend the ABA Midyear Meeting in Phoenix to enjoy the excellent CLEs, time to catch up with old colleagues and meet new colleagues, and to learn that the ABA stands strongly behind the Rule of Law.

As members of the JD, I understand this is a challenging time for each of you individually, for your judicial communities at the local and state level, and nationally. We all have a judicial friend who has been affected by one of the many executive orders which has been issued.  But as Judges we are leaders, and we must stay strong. We all know when we took the oath of office when becoming a judge that meant we would uphold the Rule of Law.

The foundation of our democracy rests on the rule of law. It ensures fairness, accountability, and the protection of rights, serving as a bedrock principle that defines the American legal system. As judges, we are entrusted with upholding this principle, even in times of challenge. With shifting legal landscapes, it is more important than ever to reaffirm the judiciary’s role as a co-equal branch of government.

The American Bar Association and the Judicial Division stands at the forefront of defending judicial independence and reinforcing the rule of law. However, this mission is not solely ours to bear—it requires the collective commitment of all members of the ABA and the legal community. Each of us has the power and responsibility to advocate for and protect the integrity of the judicial system.

I have received many emails and text messages from members of the JD. Thank you for  your continued support! But many of you are asking what can I do? Judges are doers and there is much to be done. What can you do to support the rule of law?

1. Engage in Conversations – Talk to your friends, colleagues, and community members about the importance of an independent judiciary. Public understanding of the judiciary’s role in a constitutional democracy is critical in preserving its function as a fair and impartial arbiter of justice.
2. Encourage Judicial Membership in the ABA – If you are a judge, invite your colleagues to join the ABA Judicial Division. A strong, engaged judiciary within the ABA amplifies our collective voice and strengthens our ability to protect the rule of law.
3. Support Your Colleagues – Judges across the country are face increasing criticism, sometimes unfairly. Stand with your peers, offer support, and promote civil discourse to ensure that the judiciary remains respected and independent.
4. Do What is Right – Upholding the Rule of Law requires courage and integrity. In the face of pressure or scrutiny, remain steadfast in your commitment to fairness, impartiality, and justice.

I also encourage you to attend the ABA Annual Meeting in Toronto, Canada from August 6-10, 2025 as this will provide a valuable opportunity to engage with fellow judges, legal professionals, and experts committed to the principles of justice and the rule of law.

Together, we must remain vigilant in our dedication to an independent judiciary and the rule of law. Our actions today will shape the legal landscape for future generations. Thank you for your commitment, and I look forward to working alongside each of you.

Hon. Heather A. Welch (Ret.)
2024-2025 Chair, Judicial Division