MAY 1, 2025

 

VTLA is proud to join other bar associations throughout the Commonwealth to send a unified message on this Law Day:

Every attorney in Virginia takes an oath: “I do solemnly swear or affirm that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Virginia.”

Today, in the spirit of that oath, the undersigned Virginia legal organizations join together to reaffirm our unified commitment to 

• The Rule of Law, emphasizing its role in safeguarding our democratic institutions and ensuring equal justice for all;
• Judicial Independence, protecting the judiciary from undue influence and preserving its ability to impartially administer justice; and
• Independence of the Legal Profession, upholding our ethical obligations and ensuring our ability to advocate for our clients without fear of reprisal.

Each of these core principles is essential to maintaining public trust in our institutions and preserving the rights and liberties that define us as a free society.  At this critical moment, we stand united in defense of these enduring values and call upon all members of the legal community to do the same.

Virginia Trial Lawyers Association
Virginia Bar Association
Virginia Association of Defense Attorneys
Virginia Women Attorneys Association
Virginia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Asian Pacific American Bar Association
Fairfax Bar Association
Norfolk-Portsmouth Bar Association
Augusta County Bar Association
 

APRIL 2025

The Virginia Trial Lawyers Association is, at its core, a nonpartisan organization dedicated to improving the administration of justice in our Commonwealth. For decades, we have worked with leaders of both political parties to advance reforms that strengthen our civil justice system and allow our members to more fully and fairly represent their clients. These efforts transcend party lines because justice itself is not, and must never be, a partisan issue.

We have stood guard against attacks on the rights of injured people and fought for laws that make our courts more accessible, transparent, and accountable. We have done this together - Republicans and Democrats alike- as a community of lawyers who believe deeply in the rule of law. Our allegiance to this ideal requires no formal statement as it is woven into the fabric of this organization and its mission.

We echo what others have said: Political party has no place in the defense of the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, or the integrity of our profession. These values are the bedrock of our democracy, and they are under strain.

As lawyers, we have a duty - not just to our clients, but to the system itself. That duty compels us to raise our voices, stay engaged, and speak out when the rule of law is threatened.

Be a voice. Be a sword. Be a thorn. Be an advocate.

Protest if you feel moved to. Make calls. Join organizations on the front lines. Mentor. Educate. Write. Use your tools, your words, and your wisdom to serve justice wherever and however you can.

As trial lawyers, we bring a unique set of skills to the defense of justice, accountability, and the rule of law. At this year’s Contributors Luncheon at our Annual Convention, we were honored to welcome Chris Mattei, an outstanding trial lawyer with the Koskoff firm in Connecticut, who is currently representing FBI personnel in cases involving alleged unlawful terminations.

Chris encouraged us to consider how we, as advocates, can meaningfully contribute in this moment - not just with our voices, but with our time and talents. While VTLA’s commitment to the rule of law and access to justice is unwavering, we recognize that action often speaks louder than affirmation.

For members interested in engaging more directly, Chris shared some resources and opportunities (included in the list on the right). Please note that many of these organizations operate with varying perspectives, so we encourage you to explore those most aligned with your comfort and interest. 

Please know that the leaders of this organization appreciate the significance of the moment in which we find ourselves. We want to encourage action. With that in mind, we will continue to update you with ways in which meaningful action to stand against any attack on the rule of law and the sanctity of the 7th Amendment.