NJSBF.org - Rule of Law Conference

Rule of Law Conference

Why is the rule of law so fundamental to our way of life? How is it being promoted overseas as a guiding principle that emerging nations must strive to put into place?

The public is invited to a free event exploring the most fundamental cornerstone of democracy-the rule of law-on March 20, 2009, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the New Jersey Law Center in New Brunswick off Ryders Lane.

"This is an exciting opportunity to have a vibrant and meaningful discussion about how this vital concept can be nurtured and protected," said Mary Ellen Tully, president of the New Jersey State Bar Foundation.

The rule of law protects the basic rights of everyone, allowing people to be treated fairly, earn a decent wage and access healthcare and education. Lawyers, judges, community leaders, educators and religious officials as well as all other segments of the public are encouraged to take part in what promises to be an in-depth, lively conversation about the importance of advancing the rule of law and delving deeply into the current controversies and challenges to the concept in New Jersey and around the world.

A distinguished panel from various sectors of society will examine the pivotal role of the rule of law in addressing the critical issues behind today's headlines. Notable participants include:

Chief Justice Stuart Rabner of the Supreme Court of New Jersey
The Rev. DeForrest ("Buster") Soaries, former New Jersey Secretary of State
Judge Jerome B. Simandle of the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey
Ambassador John K. Menzies, dean of the Whitehead School of Diplomacy and International Affairs, Seton Hall University
Robert J. Grey, Jr., keynote speaker, past president of the American Bar Association and partner in the Richmond, Virginia, office of Hunton & Williams
Peggy Sheahan Knee, president of the New Jersey State Bar Association
Paula Franzese, professor, Seton Hall University School of Law
Milton Heumann, professor and chair of the political science department, Rutgers, the State

University of New Jersey

Wanda A. Akin, trial lawyer in United States and international courts
Peter Tu, Vice President, Legal, moksha8 Pharmaceuticals

The Rule of Law Conference - Page Two

"Without the rule of law," said keynote speaker Robert Grey, "many of our institutions couldn't exist. It provides stability, predictability and opportunity."

Added State Bar Association president Peggy Sheahan Knee, "Commitment to the rule of law is a key ingredient in defining our society and the freedoms we enjoy. We need to do all we can to protect the rule of law in our state and help it flourish across the globe."

This dynamic forum will provide an opportunity for all those in attendance to speak directly with experts, and each other, about the underpinnings and challenges to the principles that guide our society. Continuing legal education credits will be granted. A complimentary continental breakfast and luncheon will be served.

The program is sponsored by the New Jersey State Bar Association (NJSBA), New Jersey State Bar Foundation, New Jersey Institute for Continuing Legal Education, the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University and the NJSBA's Young Lawyers Division and Judicial Administration Committee. It is modeled on the American Bar Association's Rule of Law Initiative, a project devoted to promoting the rule of law around the globe as the most effective long-term antidote to the pressing problems facing the world today.

The Rule of Law Conference is free; however, registration is required and accepted on a first-come, first-served basis by mail, fax or online. For more information and a registration form, visit the NJSBA website, www.njsba.com, or the Foundation's website, www.njsbf.org, "Today's Feature." or call 732-249-5000. Registrations must be received by March 16, 2009.

Founded in 1958, the New Jersey State Bar Foundation is the educational and philanthropic arm of the New Jersey State Bar Association. The Bar Foundation's mission is to promote public understanding of the law through a free, comprehensive public education program. Among its activities, the Foundation conducts seminars and conflict resolution training, publishes materials, operates a videotape loan library and speakers bureau, and coordinates elementary, middle and high school mock trial competitions. For more information about the Foundation's programs and publications, log on to www.njsbf.org or call 1-800-FREE-LAW.