Courts and Civility – Understanding the Rule of Law and Judicial Independence (Presented by The Federal Bar Association Judiciary Division, FBA Civics, Community Service & Outreach Committee jointly with the American Inns of Court)

This session establishes foundational knowledge about the three branches of government and defines the rule of law as publicly known rules that are consistently and evenhandedly applied. Participants will explore how the rule of law protects fundamental rights through landmark Supreme Court cases and affects everyday activities from employment to consumer protection.

Explore the structure of federal and state court systems and understand the essential functions judges perform in upholding justice. This session clarifies common misconceptions about judicial power and explains how judges are constrained by facts, law, and the review process.

Judicial independence protects people, not judges, by ensuring impartial decisions free from outside influence. Participants will learn about structural protections, codes of conduct, and the threats—including violence, intimidation, and disinformation—that endanger the justice system.

Discover the Courts and Civility Program structure, including ready-to-use PowerPoint presentations and discussion handouts requiring no preparation. Learn about the Civil Discourse and Difficult Decisions Program adopted by the FBI and American Inns of Court for students and communities.

Civility means exercising mutual respect—disagreeing without disrespecting and attacking arguments rather than people. This session emphasizes that civility is not weakness and that the most effective advocates demonstrate both vigorous representation and respectful conduct.

Access available resources from the ABA, U.S. Courts, and the Bolch Institute to continue learning and engagement. Lawyers and community members will understand their responsibility as advocates for the rule of law and discover tangible ways to participate in civic life locally.