For over two centuries, the United States has been a beacon of democracy and justice, grounded in the unwavering principle that no individual is above the law. Today, that foundational principle faces a direct assault—not from foreign adversaries but from within. The current administration has engaged in an unprecedented campaign to undermine the rule of law, attack the judiciary, violate court orders, and punish lawyers and law firms for doing their jobs.

The American Board of Trial Advocates endorses the rare statement issued by United States Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts rebuking the calls for impeachment of judges who have ruled against the orders of the current administration.

On this Presidents’ Day, we reflect on the enduring principles in our Constitution that have shaped our democracy and legal system. Among these, our Founding Framers’ establishment of two particular steadfast principles — an independent judiciary and the right to trial by jury as enshrined in the Seventh Amendment — stand as cornerstones of our Nation’s commitment to justice and fairness.