Justice Sonia Sotomayor says lawyers should stand up and fight amid turmoil in nations legal system

Published: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 4:15 pm

Sotomayor Urges Lawyers to Defend Legal System Amidst Attacks

In a powerful address, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor called on lawyers to actively defend the nation's legal system, emphasizing the importance of fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves. Speaking at an event hosted by the American Bar Association (ABA) in Washington, D.C., Justice Sotomayor highlighted the critical role lawyers play in upholding justice, particularly during times of turmoil.

Her remarks come amidst a backdrop of increasing tension within the legal landscape. The article highlights attacks on federal judges and President Donald Trump's criticism of elite law firms. Sotomayor's call to action underscores the urgency of the situation, urging lawyers to be "champions of lost causes" and to win the battles currently being fought.

This isn't the first time Supreme Court justices have spoken out. Chief Justice John Roberts recently defended judicial independence, and Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson condemned attacks on judges, both without directly naming President Trump. The Supreme Court is currently handling a growing number of emergency appeals from the Trump administration, as his conservative agenda faces challenges in lower courts. The president and his allies have criticized judges who have blocked parts of his agenda, sometimes with personal attacks. Trump has also targeted law firms over their work, leading to legal battles and, in some cases, deals. The ABA itself has been involved in legal disputes with Trump, including a lawsuit over federal grant terminations.

BNN's Perspective: Justice Sotomayor's call for lawyers to defend the legal system is a timely reminder of the importance of upholding the rule of law. While the current political climate is undeniably divisive, it's crucial for legal professionals to remain committed to their ethical obligations and to protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of political affiliation. The attacks on the judiciary, regardless of their source, are a threat to the foundations of our democracy.

Keywords: Justice Sonia Sotomayor, lawyers, legal system, attacks on judges, Donald Trump, American Bar Association, judicial independence, Supreme Court, Ketanji Brown Jackson, Chief Justice John Roberts, conservative agenda, rule of law, democracy, legal battles, federal grants, diversity, equity, inclusion, elite law firms, emergency appeals.

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