Resolution

RESOLUTION

Whereas, the Constitution of the United States provides for a system of government based on the Rule of Law, an Independent Judiciary and the Right to Trial by Jury, and

Whereas, the Constitution of the United States provides for a Judicial Branch of government which is co-equal to the Executive Branch and the Legislative Branch, and which has as its hallmark an independent judiciary, and

Whereas, there have been numerous unwarranted attacks by government officials and other individuals on judges who in their independent capacity have been called on to apply and interpret the laws of our states and nation, and

Whereas, the International Academy of Trial Lawyers is an organization selectively limited to 500 highly competent and respected trial lawyers dedicated to the preservation and protection of the Rule of Law, an Independent Judiciary and the right to Trial by Jury;

Therefore, Be It Resolved: That the International Academy of Trial Lawyers reconfirms its commitment to the Rule of Law, an Independent Judiciary and the Right to Trial by Jury; and further,

Be It Resolved: That the International Academy of Trial Lawyers strongly condemns the attacks on judges either directly or indirectly in such a way as to undermine the Rule of Law, an Independent Judiciary or the Right to Trial by Jury, especially those by elected government officials who should know better and whose oath of office is to uphold and protect the Rule of Law, an Independent Judiciary and the Right to Trial by Jury guaranteed by the constitution; and further,

Be It Resolved: That the International Academy of Trial Lawyers publicize this Resolution through all reasonably available media channels.

Passed by the Board of Directors
Punta Mita, Mexico
June 19, 2005