President's page: Rule of law depends on independent courts, respect among branches

Athena Dickson is 2025-2026 Missouri Bar president and a partner at Siro Smith Dickson PC.

The principle that our government is governed by laws, not by individuals, is not abstract. It is not partisan. And it is not optional. It is the shared civic agreement that no one stands above the law, and that our system of government functions only when each branch respects the constitutional role of the others. 

That is why the recent decision not to hold Missouri’s State of the Judiciary on Jan. 28 gives pause. The State of the Judiciary has long served as a moment of institutional respect — an opportunity for the judicial branch to speak openly about the administration of justice, challenges facing our courts, and the needs of the citizens it serves. When that tradition is disrupted and the judiciary is publicly characterized as the “lesser” branch of government, it raises serious concerns that transcend any single bill or political disagreement. 

The Missouri Constitution does not recognize “greater” or “lesser” branches. It establishes co-equal branches — legislative, executive, and judicial, each with distinct responsibilities and each essential to preserving liberty. Our courts, led by the Supreme Court of Missouri, exist to interpret and apply the law impartially, safeguard individual rights, and ensure that the rule of law prevails. 

Disagreement with court decisions or judicial administration is not only permissible; it is inevitable in a healthy democracy. But respect for the judicial branch as an institution is non-negotiable. When rhetoric diminishes the courts or seeks to pressure them through political means, public confidence in the justice system erodes. And when confidence in the courts erodes, so too does the rule of law. 

As lawyers, we occupy a unique position at this moment. We are officers of the court. We are sworn not merely to advocate for clients, but to uphold the Constitution and the legal system itself. That obligation requires us to speak clearly when foundational principles are threatened. 

This is not about taking sides in a policy dispute. It is about defending the structure that allows disputes to be resolved lawfully, peacefully, and fairly. The rule of law depends on independent courts, mutual respect among the branches, and a shared commitment to constitutional governance. Let us be clear, consistent, and courageous in saying so. 

The Missouri Bar’s Board of Governors issued this statement related to the events on Jan. 28, and so many of you have reached out in support. I encourage you to continue standing up for an independent judiciary. 

One essential way to support an independent judiciary is to participate in the judicial performance review process. The judicial performance review process in Missouri plays a vital role in strengthening public confidence in our courts and ensuring those who serve on the bench meet high standards of fairness, integrity, and competence. It is an essential component of our justice system and one that depends on your engagement, especially through lawyer surveys.

You will soon receive an email asking for your feedback on the judges standing for retention this year. I strongly encourage you to complete that survey. Your perspective matters. 

By participating in the judicial performance review process, you are not only serving your profession, but also reinforcing the foundational principles of justice and helping maintain Missourians’ faith in our system of government.