As world events have made increasingly clear during at least the past 15 years, the rule of law is not only a worthy philosophical concept, but is also a basic requirement for the stable economic environments necessary for sustainable growth and development.

It is a vital interest of every lawyer — even the most hard-nosed commercial lawyers — and every client.  Without the rule of law, every client's rights, interests, and future are at risk, even those of the wealthiest and best-connected members of society.