#United States #Los Angeles #Trial Lawyers #Judicial Independence #Justice System

Investigating Democracy: Trial Lawyers Unite

In an alarming turn of events for the American legal landscape, 2025 has already recorded a staggering 562 threats against federal judges, an unprecedented rise surpassing all of last year. This surge in intimidation has prompted America’s leading trial lawyers to rally together in defense of judicial independence at the upcoming National Speak Up for Justice Forum on October 23.

The Forum: A Call to Action

The virtual event titled "Judges Under Siege, Lawyers Speak Up" will feature a star-studded lineup of legal powerhouses including David Boies, Mark Geragos, Mark Lanier, Stephen Zach, and Patricia L. Glaser. These distinguished attorneys will shed light on the crises currently facing the judiciary while emphasizing the urgency of preserving the rule of law amid escalating threats.

Unfolding Crisis

Across the nation, judges find themselves under fire, not only from hostile political environments but also from emotional and physical threats directed towards them and their families. The Supreme Court's controversial use of its "emergency docket" has compounded these threats by shifting how justice is meted out, often without the public's awareness. Lawyers warn that we stand at a critical juncture that threatens the very foundation of judicial credibility and independence.

Paul Kiesel, the forum's founder, articulated the gravity of the situation, comparing the current threats against judicial independence to historical defiance seen during Andrew Jackson’s presidency. He stated, “When judges fear for their safety and their families' lives, the entire foundation of our democracy is at risk.”

Speaker Highlights

During the forum, attendees will hear from:

• - David Boies: Renowned for his pivotal role in the Bush v. Gore case and U.S. v. Microsoft, Boies advocates tirelessly for equity in various civil rights issues.
• - Mark Geragos: A principal at Geragos & Geragos, he has successfully led high-profile lawsuits, including landmark cases related to the Armenian Genocide.
• - Mark Lanier: Founder of The Lanier Law Firm, Lanier is celebrated for his remarkable courtroom victories against significant corporations.
• - Patricia L. Glaser: A titan in both business and entertainment law, Glaser chairs Litigation at Glaser Weil LLP.
• - Stephen N. Zack: A former President of the American Bar Association, Zack is a vigorous advocate for an independent judiciary and civil rights.

What Will Be Discussed?

The speakers will confront topics including:

• - The Nationwide Threats: An analysis of rising threats like doxxing and political intimidation targeting judges.
• - Transparency Issues: The implications of the Supreme Court’s reliance on an emergency docket, fostering outcomes with limited public scrutiny.
• - Trust Erosion: How prioritizing results over established legal precedents is eroding public trust in judicial systems.
• - The Legal Profession's Role: A pressing appeal for lawyers to advocate for judicial independence and uphold the principles of democracy.

Continuing the Conversation

This forum represents the sixth installment in a vital series, previously drawing focus to the alarming realities faced by both federal and state judges, including bomb threats and AI-generated dangers. It is crucial for legal professionals, journalists, and concerned citizens to engage in these discussions as the legal community confronts the rising tides of intimidation and politicization.

Those interested are encouraged to register at www.SpeakUpForJustice.law. The forum starts at 12 PM Eastern Time, ensuring ample opportunity for participation from various time zones.

About Speak Up for Justice

Founded by attorney Paul Kiesel, this nonpartisan movement champions the independence of the judiciary and seeks to preserve democracy from undue political influence. The dedicated Executive Committee features judges and legal experts committed to accountability and support for legal practitioners nationwide.

As we stand at this crucial moment in history, it is up to each of us—connected by a common aspiration for a just society—to advocate for integrity in our judicial system and through our actions, gaurantee its independence for generations to come.