Unchecked Power is a Threat to Democracy, Says Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association

"The Integrity of Our Judiciary Must Be Defended"

CLEVELAND, Feb. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- When the integrity of our judicial system or the independence of our judges is challenged, our Bar Association is duty-bound to speak up. Accordingly, the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association (CMBA) unequivocally condemns all unfounded attacks by politicians who claim that our judicial system is "corrupt" and "rigged" in response to lawful decisions restraining actions by the executive or legislative branches. Similarly, we condemn any assertion that the power of the executive branch outweighs (or should outweigh) that of the judicial branch. These irresponsible accusations, including targeting individual judges with baseless impeachment threats, undermine the very foundation of our justice system. Worse, such statements can provoke threats and endanger those who serve and work in our courts.

Our judicial system is built on the principles of fairness, impartiality, and appellate review. The CMBA supports judges in their mission to adjudicate cases based on fact and the law, free from fear or favor, and reminds the public that our system — imperfect as it may be — includes built-in checks and balances.

"Unfounded accusations of corruption erode public confidence in the judiciary."

The CMBA strongly supports zealous advocacy that appropriately challenges judicial rulings. We affirm the right to express disagreement with a decision, verdict, or process. We call upon all lawyers and public officials to refrain from unfounded accusations of corruption that erode public confidence in the judiciary.

"No branch of government is more important — or more legitimate — than another."

Our Constitution established three co-equal branches of government — the executive, legislative, and judicial. Each branch has unique responsibilities, and each is critical to maintaining a balance of power. No branch is more important — or more legitimate — than another. We urge lawyers and citizens to reject attacks by any government official that threaten this foundational pillar of our democracy.

"The CMBA unequivocally condemns all attacks that undermine the rule of law."

We encourage the citizens of Greater Cleveland to deepen their understanding of why checks and balances are essential, and, in particular, why independent judicial review relies on fair and impartial courts. Consistent with our mission to promote the rule of law and strengthen public trust in the judiciary, the CMBA will continue facilitating civil dialogue on these critical issues within our Bar and throughout our community.

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The Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association is a nonprofit professional organization dedicated to serving the needs of legal professionals in Greater Cleveland. A voluntary membership organization, our members include attorneys and judges, law students, paralegals, and other business professionals. Together, we serve as the collective voice of our legal profession, both bench and bar. Learn more at http://www.clemetrobar.org.

CONTACT: CMBA Media Relations Team [email protected] 

SOURCE Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association