ABA Must Lead Fight for Court Funding, Says New ABA President Robinson
Video from ABA Media Relations.
In his inaugural speech Monday, new ABA President Wm. T. (Bill) Robinson III emphasized that the ABA will continue to advocate for adequate funding for the state courts. Robinson praised the Task Force on Preservation of Justice for its work so far and renewed the ABA’s commitment to continue addressing the issue. The task force was initiated by his predecessor Stephen N. Zack, who introduced Robinson to the House as his last official act as outgoing president.
“The ongoing economic crisis has resulted in additional cuts in funding for our already underfunded state courts. This threatens the very viability of our entire justice system in America and puts at risk the third co-equal branch of government,” Robinson said. “Everyone agrees that corrective funding is urgently needed in every state in this country. The ABA, with our national scope and proven expertise, must lead the way.”
In addition to the Preservation Task Force, Robinson said that he has directed three other entities to continue the work that they started during Zack’s term: the Commission on Civic Education in the Nation’s Schools, the Commission on Hispanic Rights and Responsibilities, and the Commission on Disaster Preparedness.
Robinson also plans to emphasize membership development and an increased awareness of diversity within the profession.
“Diversity must continue to be of great importance to everyone in this association by bringing to the forefront women, disabled and minority lawyers, and lawyers regardless of sexual orientation,” Robinson said. “Diversity enhances all of us individually and as an association.” Robinson reported an increase in diversity throughout the ABA leadership structure for the coming year.
He noted that his firm, Frost Brown Todd, has committed itself to diversity and said it was recently named one of 32 firms recognized for providing opportunities in advancement for women.
In September, a two-day symposium will be held at the University of Kentucky College of Law in Lexington to honor Robinson, a 1971 graduate of the law school. The event will focus on the court-funding issue.
