May 1, 2026—Today, we observe National Law Day, a day dedicated to the Rule of Law and the constitutional principles that protect us all: equal justice under law, due process, and courts free from political interference.
For the International Academy of Trial Lawyers, this is central to our mission.
At a time when court rulings are being defied, judges are being threatened, and public confidence in legal institutions is under strain, members of the legal profession must lead. We must speak clearly, act with conviction, and defend the institutions that make justice possible.
Around the world, advocates for the Rule of Law are standing up for judicial independence, organizing events in their communities, and educating others about what is at stake. Many of our Fellows are part of that effort. I encourage you to read and share our most recent Academy Statement with your networks. The Academy Advocates for the Rule of Law Around the World.
I also encourage you to subscribe to and listen to the Academy’s podcast, The Rule of Law: The Academy Speaks. In the first episode of the new season, President-Elect Craig Peters speaks with retired Federal Judge Philip Pro, of Keep Our Republic’s Article III Coalition, about why Law Day matters and why it demands action now.
As we celebrate Law Day, please reflect on what you can do to protect and promote the Rule of Law.
Respectfully,
James P. Roy
President
International Academy of Trial Lawyers
About the Academy
The International Academy of Trial Lawyers (the Academy) is a fellowship of lawyers with a singular mission: to protect and promote the Rule of Law. Founded in 1954, the Academy is composed of distinguished trial lawyers recognized for skill, experience, ethics, and civility. It includes both plaintiff and defense counsel in civil litigation, as well as prosecutors and defense lawyers in criminal cases. The Academy includes trial lawyers from the United States, Canada, and more than 30 other countries. Fellowship is by invitation only. Nominees must have distinguished themselves through careers defined by exceptional trial skills, professionalism, and integrity. They become Fellows only after a rigorous vetting process that includes both peer and judicial review.