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Dear ABOTA Members,
As we reach the halfway point of this remarkable year, I continue to be humbled by the privilege of serving as your National President. Traveling throughout this great nation and spending time with our Chapters, leaders, members, and guests has only deepened my appreciation for the extraordinary men and women who make ABOTA such an exceptional organization. Every visit reinforces what I have long believed: that there is no finer association of trial lawyers anywhere.
This Fourth of July carries special meaning as our nation celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. It is a time to reflect not only on our history, but on the enduring principles that define America.
Liberty is our birthright. Freedom requires responsibility. And our greatest strength is found in our unity around shared ideals — liberty, justice, equality under the law, and the Rule of Law itself.
As trial lawyers, these principles are more than history lessons. They are the foundation of our profession. Nearly half of the signers of the Declaration of Independence were lawyers who envisioned a nation governed not by the arbitrary will of individuals, but by the Rule of Law. Their vision entrusted future generations with the responsibility to preserve the freedoms they secured. That responsibility now belongs to us.
No organization embodies that commitment more completely than ABOTA. We proudly stand for the right to trial by jury, the independence of the judiciary, and the highest standards of integrity, honor, civility, and professionalism. These are not simply ideals we admire, they are principles we live every day in our courtrooms and in our communities.
In a time when our institutions are often tested, ABOTA’s mission has never been more important. Democracy depends upon citizens and lawyers alike who are willing to safeguard the Rule of Law, protect access to justice, and serve others with courage and integrity.
It has been one of the greatest honors of my career to meet so many of you this year. Your dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to our mission inspire me every day. Together, we are preserving a proud legacy while preparing the next generation of advocates to carry it forward.
As we celebrate this historic Independence Day, let us honor the lawyers of 1776 not only by remembering their words, but by living their principles. May we continue to be worthy stewards of the freedoms they secured, faithful guardians of our civil justice system, and proud ambassadors for the profession we all cherish.
Thank you for your friendship, your trust, and your steadfast commitment to ABOTA.
On behalf of Sue, myself, and my family, as well as all in our National Office, I wish each of you and your loved ones a joyful, safe, and memorable Fourth of July. Wishing all the best, Happy Independence Day!
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