The Least Understood Branch (LUB) project is a joint effort of the Standing Committee on Judicial Independence and the Judicial Division, with the League of Women Voters (LWV), Justice at Stake (JAS), and the National Center for State Courts (NCSC) as participating entities. The LUB project focuses on partnering with state and local bar associations to carry the message of the importance of fair and impartial courts in our democracy to every possible venue in their communities. The Ohio State Bar Association has adopted LUB. Click here to learn more.

The LUB project has developed the below materials which include sample editorials, op-ed pieces, letters to the editor, and a message platform on the importance of "fair and impartial courts" to our democratic society. LUB also produced the recently-released DVD, Protecting Our Rights, Protecting Our Courts, and has prepared a pamphlet titled Countering the Critics as an aid to speakers in this area as well as a guide on responding to potentially hostile or critical questions. LUB is in the process of providing state and local bar associations with training in delivering these messages.

RESOURCES

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Sample Op-Ed

Sample Letter to the Editor

Message Platform on a Fair and Impartial Judiciary

Judicial Independence Quotes from Key Columns

Judicial Independence Quotes from Key Editorials

Responses of Bar Leaders To Threats to Judicial Independence

Sample Resolution for State and Local Governments

Countering the Critics Pamphlet I

Countering the Critics Pamphlet II

Rapid Response to Unfair and Unjust Criticism of Judges

Sample Speeches

ABA President Robert J. Grey Jr.

Address to Columbus Metropolitan Club

Address to State Bar of South Dakota

Law Day Speech

Address to Ohio State Bar Association

Resource Kit Information prior to 07/26/2006