Walker Clark
Worldview Archives
What prevents judges from being independent?
Most countries with reasonably developed legal systems recognize the importance of judicial independence to the rule of law. Judicial independence often can be more than a just an academic theory or empty slogan. Nonetheless, the independent judiciary is under assault today, including in the United States.
This is not new.
Why Judicial Independence Matters
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.
What Binds Us Together
In these days of sanctions, sabre-rattling, and "red lines," it is refreshing to see how the common values and commitments of the legal profession prove stronger than the political, economic, and ideological differences that would divide us.
This is one of the ten most frequently read posts in the Worldview Archives, with more than 11,000 views since it was published in 2014.
