As challenges to judicial independence persist, the legal community must act proactively to defend against and prevent statements or actions that create real dangers for the third co-equal branch of government.

/PRNewswire/ -- An independent judiciary remains essential to our system of government and individual rights. Judges must decide cases based on law without outside pressure or fear. Any moves by those in authority that intimidate members of the judiciary threaten the fairness of our justice system, weaken public trust in the courts, and damage the rule of law. Such moves offend our system of justice. ABOTA must speak out against them no matter the politics involved.

Recently, the General Counsel of the Department of Homeland Security, James Percival, released a list he called the "Worst of the Worst: District Court Judges." This list copies the style of the DHS list of "Worst of the Worst Criminal Illegal Aliens." His standard for inclusion is rulings that go against the current administration's positions. Releasing the names and jurisdictions of judges in the same format used for criminals is especially troubling and could expose them to violence from extremists.

This concern is not overstated. Attacks on judges are a real issue in our country, something the DHS General Counsel surely understands. ABOTA, bound to protect judicial independence, cannot stay silent as if such conduct is acceptable.

We condemn Mr. Percival's list and his actions. He holds a post of significant authority. The list served no proper official goal and instead aimed to reduce trust in the courts and pressure independent judges. When the executive branch targets specific judges, it harms the balance of powers that safeguards our democracy and liberty.

The American Board of Trial Advocates cannot - and will not - stay silent against this attack on its core mission. I call on all members to keep supporting judicial independence and the rule of law while reminding the public how an impartial judiciary protects our freedoms.

William D. Shapiro
2026 National President
American Board of Trial Advocates

About the American Board of Trial Advocates
ABOTA is a national group of seasoned trial lawyers and judges. ABOTA and its members work to preserve and promote the civil jury trial right under the Seventh Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The group includes more than 7,000 lawyers and judges in 94 chapters across all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

For more information contact:
Brian Tyson, Executive Director
Cell: (214) 287-8351
[email protected]

SOURCE American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA)