The Bar Association of Erie County’s values, adopted in our Strategic Plan, are respect for the Rule of Law, Civility, Inclusion, Integrity, Leadership and Equity. In keeping with our values, the BAEC will continue nonpartisan initiatives to educate and advocate around the Rule of Law. Visit this page often to stay up-to-date on association news and educational opportunities related to the Rule of Law.

Mission Statement of the Rule of Law Committee

“There can be no free society without law administered through an independent judiciary.  If one man can be allowed to determine for himself what is law, every man can.  That means first chaos, then tyranny.”

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Felix Frankfurter, United States v. United Mine Workers (1947)

We are committed to the rule of law and due process.  We believe in the rights and liberties afforded to all under the Constitution.  Respect for the rule of law is a core value adopted by the BAEC.

As lawyers, there is nothing more fundamental to our oath and professional well-being than defending the sanctity of the rule of law.  This Committee was established to affirm our unwavering commitment to the rights of our members and our community at large.  We embrace the responsibility to commit our resources to protect the rule of law against existential threats, regardless of political views or ideologies.

The ends can never justify the means under our independent judicial system.  Any erosion in the rule of law by tacitly tolerating transparent deviations from its basic tenets is anathema to a just and orderly society.

This Committee adopts a nonpartisan three (3) pillar approach to supporting the rule law:

1. Educate — Education is the first aim listed under the BAEC’s mission statement. We will listen to our members and our community in order to provide educational resources and statements on key issues affecting the rule of law.  We believe education is critical to fully comprehend the importance of strict adherence to the rule of law.

2. Advocate — Advocacy will involve listening to our members and supporting their professional needs. We denounce any actions which attack or seek to intimidate lawyers or judges based on their advocacy or lawful decisions.  We will oppose any activities that undermine the independence of our judiciary.  In addition, we cannot accept unlawful actions against lawyers and law firms regarding their representation of clients.  Lawyers must be permitted to defend the constitution and the rule of law, operating free from intimidation, coercion, or retaliation.

3. Litigate — In furtherance of this Committee’s mission, we will join amicus briefs and legal proceedings that challenge the constitutionality of actions that are contrary to the rule of law.

For questions or comments regarding our Rule of Law Committee, please email Brian Melber at baec@eriebar.org.