Join CCE for "Is the Rule of Law Under Siege? Challenges Facing the Federal Courts," a Bench-Bar-Media Dialogue event

You’re invited to join the Council for Court Excellence on Tuesday, October 27, 2026 for our newest Bench-Bar-Media Dialogue event, "Is the Rule of Law Under Siege? Challenges Facing the Federal Courts" featuring a powerhouse panel:

• Chief Judge James E. “Jeb” Boasberg, U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia  

• Judge Cornelia T.L. Pillard, U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit  

• Josh Gerstein, POLITICO’s Senior Legal Affairs Reporter

‍Our distinguished guest speakers will reflect on the changing shape of their roles and the importance of maintaining a strong, independent federal judiciary to protect the rule of law, particularly in an era of extreme partisan division. Their interactive and candid discussion will tackle the central topic from multiple angles and perspectives, including:  

• What are the most pressing current challenges facing the federal courts, particularly in D.C.?

• In what ways, if any, is the sanctity of the rule of law actually changing? How can judges, lawyers, and journalists prevent its erosion, actual or perceived?

• What are the basic mechanics of an emergency docket? How do emergency dockets impact the operations of and reporting on our federal courts?  

• What has changed for judges, court staff, and journalists amid the sheer number of lawsuits challenging administration actions and policies, the use of subpoenas and suits targeting journalists, and rising appeals?  

Join us on October 27^th at 6pm at this free, educational event - generously hosted by Davis Wright Tremaine - for an enlightening conversation. A reception will follow at 7:15pm.

Register HERE.

About the Bench-Bar-Media Dialogue Series

Since 2010, CCE has presented this dynamic event series that brings together judges, lawyers,and members of the press to discuss timely and engaging First Amendment andjustice-related topics. Past Bench-Bar-Media topics include #MeToo litigation, Justice on the Big Screen, Leaks and the Law, Juvenile Confidentiality, Cameras in the Courtroom, The Libby Trial, among many others.

Highlights from recent Bench-Bar-Media events:‍

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