WASHINGTON, July 8, 2016 – The American Bar Association is deeply troubled by the events of the past few days. The incidents are at the same time heartbreaking, infuriating and terrifying. Our civil society and the safety of all in it – citizens and law enforcement – rely on the rule of law.
It is imperative that the law be fairly applied and enforced. All citizens must perceive our justice system as fair. It also is essential that laws and authority are respected and followed. Violence is not an appropriate response. We must not let these tragic events define us as a nation or send us down the wrong path.
The ABA is urgently exploring opportunities to develop creative solutions to this problem that affects us all. As the voice of the legal profession in America, the ABA calls on all lawyers to work quickly and collaboratively toward viable and just answers to these issues.