MSBA Commitment to the Rule of Law | A Statement from the MSBA President

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Cheryl Dalby, cdalby@mnbars.org, 612-333-1183
 

March 3, 2025 — The rule of law is the foundation of our democracy, ensuring that government operates within legal bounds, laws are applied fairly, and no one is above the law. Our collective commitment to justice and democracy should not be a partisan issue. While change is expected when new leaders take office, it must occur in an orderly manner that respects legal principles, individual rights, and democratic institutions.

Instead, we are witnessing efforts to erode judicial independence, sidestep constitutional processes, and undermine institutions that uphold accountability. Disregarding legal mandates and silencing those who uphold the law weakens our democracy and erodes public trust.

The legal profession has long stood as a guardian of the rule of law. We reaffirm our commitment to holding all branches of government accountable, supporting our courts, and defending legal principles against unlawful encroachments. 

We urge all lawyers, judges, and public officials to stand with us. As legal professionals, we have sworn an oath to uphold the Constitution. That obligation compels us to act.

Samuel Edmunds
2024-2025 President
Minnesota State Bar Association

***

MSBA was established in 1883 and serves over 14,000 attorney and law student members. The association promotes the highest standards of excellence and inclusion within the legal profession, provides valued resources to its members, and strives to improve the law and the equal administration of justice for all.