Section of Litigation Committee on the American Judicial System

Protecting judicial independence and the rule of law. Preserving fair and impartial courts. Responding to unjust criticism of the judiciary and the media.

The Mission of the Committee

The Section of Litigation is proud to introduce its new Committee on the American Judicial System. The Committee was created in the 2019-2020 bar year to continue the important mission and work started by the ABA Standing Committee on the American Judicial System and its Subcommittee on Federal Courts and Subcommittee on State Courts. The Standing Committee was sunset in August 2019. The Section’s Committee on the American Judicial System is chaired by Alan S. Kopit, Laurence F. Pulgram and Hon. Lorna G. Schofield. The mission of the Committee is: (i) protecting judicial independence and the rule of law; (ii) preserving fair and impartial courts; and (iii) responding to unjust criticism of the judiciary and the media.

Support the Committee

Your donation helps protect judicial independence and the rule of law and preserve fair and impartial courts.

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In the News

Recent news and analysis covering the American judicial system.

Defending Justice: Essays on Judicial Indepedence

These thoughtful essays delve into fairness, impartiality, access to justice and adherence to the rule of law. Judges and lawyers reflect on the American judicial system, its status in the world and its willingness to address faults honestly. A joint production of the ABA Journal and the Section of Litigation Committee on the American Judicial System.

ABA Journal - Defending Justice

How-to Guide for Rapid Response to Fake News, Misleading Statements, and Unjust Criticism of the Judiciary

The updated version of the Rapid Response to Fake News, Misleading Statements, and Unjust Criticism of the Judiciary is available for download. This booklet serves as a tool to guide bar associations as they prepare for and respond to unjust attacks. This resource will walk you through how to evaluate whether an attack is unjust, whether it requires a response, and how to respond most effectively.

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Support the Mission

Now a permanent endowment, maintained within the ABA Fund for Justice and Education—the charitable arm of the ABA, the Section has raised $750,000 in principal funds for the Civiletti Endowment over five years. Investment income earned from this principal, and your subsequent donations, will help to sustain the Section of Litigation’s public service programs, promoting a long-lasting impact in communities across the country.

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