Pledge to Preserve the Independence of the Legal Profession and the Judicial System

Introduction

We, members of the legal profession, reaffirm the solemn oath we took upon entering this noble calling. We recognize that our oath is not a mere formality but a living promise to uphold the Constitution, the rule of law, and the fair and equitable administration of justice.

We are united by the principles expressed in the Preamble to the Model Rules of Professional Conduct and in the preambles to the Rules of Professional Conduct of our respective states. As officers of the court, we acknowledge the sacred trust placed in us by the public we serve.

It is upon these foundations—the independence of our profession, the independence of our judicial system, and the strength of our unity—that our service to justice and to society stands firm.

Therefore, we commit ourselves to the following shared foundational principles of our profession.

Statement of Shared Principles

1. Upholding the Rule of Law and the Constitution

We reaffirm our oath and pledge to support and defend the Constitution of the United States and the constitutions of our respective states. We recognize that fidelity to these charters is fundamental to liberty, justice, and the preservation of our American institutions. We will act, speak, and lead in ways that strengthen public confidence in the rule of law, the judiciary, and our constitutional system.

2. Preserving the Independence of the Profession and the Judiciary

We affirm that an independent legal profession is indispensable to the protection of governance under the rule of law. The self-governance of our profession safeguards the public from tyranny and ensures that justice remains free from political influence. Each lawyer bears personal responsibility to defend and uphold this independence for the good of the public and the integrity of the legal system.

3. Upholding the Legal Process and Respect for the Courts

We pledge to maintain the independence of and respect due to the courts of justice, judicial officers, and all participants in the legal process. We recognize that respect for the rule of law depends upon civility, professionalism, and honest advocacy in every proceeding and in every forum.

4. Promoting Public Trust and Confidence

We commit to preserving public trust and confidence in the legal system and the legal profession. We pledge to promote integrity, honesty, and respect for the courts by upholding the values of the Rules of Professional Conduct—as judicial officers and as public citizens with special responsibilities for the preservation of justice.

5. Ensuring Access to Justice for All

We pledge to devote our professional time, skill, and influence to ensuring access to justice, particularly for those who cannot afford it. We will champion efforts that improve the law, advance equality, and ensure that all persons, regardless of means or status, have a fair opportunity to be heard.

6. Advancing Professional Excellence and Ethical Leadership

We recommit to the continued pursuit of professional excellence and ethical leadership. We will strive to uphold the highest ideals of truth, integrity, and service, and to act as mentors and servant leaders for the next generation of lawyers. Our strength as a profession depends upon both skill and moral courage.

7. Fostering Unity and Interdependence

We pledge to collaborate with one another—across jurisdictions, disciplines, and perspectives—to strengthen the unity of the profession. Our shared oath binds us not only to individual excellence but also to collective responsibility. Together, we form a bulwark for justice, democracy, and the preservation of civil society.

Conclusion: Our Common Purpose

In unity and shared purpose, we pledge to be steadfast guardians of justice. We will act, individually and collectively to defend the independence of the judiciary, to uphold the rule of law, and to ensure that the legal profession remains an independent force for truth, justice, and freedom.