In cooperation with the Kettering Foundation, the ABA Coalition for Justice has developed two National Issues Forum (NIF) programs on topics of critical import both to those at work in the justice system and the public at large.
National Issues Forums are designed to engage the public in meaningful discussions on various topics of interest to each local community. Programs developed by the Coalition for Justice are concerned primarily with the administration of justice and improvements in the justice system.
NIF "forums" are small discussion groups (10-20 members) headed by a moderator and utilizing a short video to stimulate a discussion that generally lasts about two hours. As stand-alone events, forums are a valuable way to promote democratic engagement since they involve ordinary people in considering ways to improve policies that affect us all. Additionally, when judges, bar association members, and policy makers attend as observers, these forums allow key people the opportunity to hear what their communities want from the justice system.
To further that end, the Coalition gathers "Post-Forum Reports" from across the nation to compile a final report on the each program. The resulting summary reports will be shared with courts, bar associations, and policy makers to encourage their support of the justice improvements recommended by the forum participants.
This site provides the resources for bar associations, courts, and members of the community to organize local discussions using the ABA/NIF program materials. Multiple forums in a locality or statewide are encouraged. The forums require little time or money but have rich results. Programs currently available through the Coalition for Justice include:
- "…And Justice For All": Ensuring Public Trust and Confidence in the Justice System
- Reaching a Verdict: What Do We Want for the American Jury System?
- Under Pressure: How Do We Keep the Courts Fair and Impartial?
To learn more about presenting a National Issues Forum in your area, please view our Easy Guide to Holding Your Own National Issues Forum.
