National Association of Women Judges COUNTERBALANCE

Volume 28 Issue 1

Thorny Issues and Slippery Slopes: INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Perspectives on Judicial Independence 1 Thorny Issues and Slippery BY CHIEF JUSTICE SHIRLEY S. ABRAHAMSON Slopes: Perspectives on Judicial Independence /1 merica has valued judicial independence since before the for- mation of the country. The American Revolution, a fi ght for From the President /2 A national independence, was also a fi ght for judicial indepen- Executive Director’s Report /4 dence. Among the list of grievances justifying the American Revolution, the Declaration of Independence charged King George III with obstruct- News /8 ing the administration of justice “by refusing his assent to laws for estab- lishing judiciary powers” and with making judges “dependent on his will NAWJ Photo Album /11 alone, for the tenure of their offi ces, and the amount and payment of their Staff Corner /13 salaries.” But judicial independence is more than the creation of a judiciary NAWJ 29th Annual or tenure and salaries. Although the phrase is hard to defi ne, the term Conference /14 “judicial independence” embodies the concept that a judge decides cases Events /18 fairly, impartially, and according to the facts and law, not according to whim, prejudice, or fear, or the dictates of the legislature or executive, or the latest opinion poll. Judicial independence means mak- Programming /20 ing unpopular decisions at times, unpopular with the legislative or executive branch or the public or District News /21 judicial colleagues. Judges make choices; by defi nition they exercise judgment. Not all judges reason alike or neces- Member News /27 sarily reach the same result even when presented with the same facts and the same law. If judges did not use judgment, they could be replaced by computers, which when given the facts and law would churn out an answer. Nevertheless, judicial independence does not mean that the judge is a loose cannon on the deck of justice, shooting in any direction he or she wishes. Judicial independence is a means to an end--a fair trial according to the law. The state constitutions and the sixth and fourteenth amendments to the U.S. Constitution guarantee the right to an impartial judge in criminal and civil cases. And these guarantees of impartiality are the legal backbone of judicial independence. Judicial independence must, however, be balanced against and paired with other values, namely, accountability and responsibility. All government offi cials are accountable. Judges are accountable to explain their decisions and make these explanations available to the litigants, the public, the academy, fellow judges, and the media. The judicial branch is responsible for processing cases expeditiously, offering everyone equal access to justice, and requiring judges and court personnel to be courteous and helpful. The judicial branch is responsible for administering justice free of discrimination. The judicial branch is respon- sible for spending its appropriations prudently and in accordance with sound fi scal practices. The judicial branch must give the bar and the public an opportunity to express their views about the system and to participate in the system through citizen boards and committees and volunteer programs. Judicial independence has been strongly emphasized by international organizations as a key to Counterbalance is safeguarding human rights. The United Nations, which regularly assists countries in establishing published by the systems of justice, set forth standards for achieving an independent judiciary in its Basic Principles National Association of Women Judges on the Independence of the Judiciary, which were adopted in 1985. Both the Universal Declaration of 1341 Connecticut Ave, NW Suite 4.2 Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights enumerate an independent Washington DC 20036 judiciary as an essential element for protecting human rights. In fostering judicial independence in Phone: 202.393.0222 our country we must keep in mind and be guided by international norms. “Global” is the key word in Fax: 202.393.0125 E-mail: [email protected] this decade. Web: www.nawj.org See THORNY ISSUES page 6

COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 1 BOARD OF DIRECTORS From the President President Hon. Brenda Stith Loftin he 2007 NAWJ Mid-Year Meeting Curley, Finance Chair; Linda Murname, of the Board of Directors was held Membership Chair; Resource Board Person. President-Elect T over the weekend of March 23, Strategic planning is a widely accepted Hon. Fernande R.V. Duffly 2007 in Manhattan, New York. The meeting management technique commonly used in was a great success and covered many the profi t and not for profi t sectors. Ms. Vice President-Districts substantive issues. The meeting began on Shelley Stump, facilitator, and the Strategic Hon. Margret G. Robb Friday with a presentation of Judge Sarah Plan Steering Committee have worked Curley’s judicial education program, “The very hard to create a strategic plan that Vice President-Publications Bankruptcy Card and How To will serve as a road map to Hon. La Tia Martin Play It”. Judge Cecilia Morris help NAWJ as an organization joined Judge Curley in the establish objectives and give Treasurer presentation of the program. A us a direction that can exist Hon. Marjorie Laird Carter reception was held afterwards in the external environment. at the Bar Association of The NAWJ Long-Range Secretary the City of New York. The Strategic Plan sets forth our Hon. Joan K. Irion board meeting began on vision for the future, core Saturday and wrapped up on values, mission statement, Immediate Past President Sunday morning. We were guiding principles, strategic Hon. Vanessa Ruiz treated to a very beautiful and directions, goals and strategies elegant reception at the Rubin for the years 2007-2012. The Projects Committee Chair Museum where we honored draft plan was distributed Hon. Dana Fabe women federal judges and celebrated the to the board of directors for comment to outstanding women of the New York State ensure that the board was a part of the Finance Committee Chair Judiciary. The following items are just a planning effort and to enhance their sense Hon. Sarah Sharer Curley few of the topics that I discussed with the of ownership for the plan. In addition board during the business meeting. to the strategic plan, the NAWJ Board Resource Development Strategic Planning Policies have been Committee Chair established. The purpose of the policies is Hon. Sandra Thompson to institutionalize the planning process for LONG-RANGE STRATEGIC PLAN our organization. The policies identify the International Director general planning processes and activities My presidency began with the that the board of directors must adopt to Hon. Bea Ann Smith awesome task of laying the groundwork for guide its ongoing planning activities. Once a strategic plan for our association. During the board has approved the strategic plan ABA Delegate the weekend of December 1, 2006, in the Hon. Carolyn Engel Temin and board strategic planning policies, mist of an ice storm in St. Louis, Missouri, we will begin to implement the plan. A NAWJ began its Long-Rage Strategic STAFF modifi ed committee structure will be planning process for the years 2007-2012. recommended to the board that will ensure Members of the Strategic Plan effective oversight and accountability Executive Director Steering Committee in attendance Drucilla S. Ramey for plan implementation. After twenty- included: Shelley Stump, Facilitator; seven years of phenomenal success as an Brenda Stith Loftin, President; Nan Duffl y, organization, the NAWJ Strategic Plan will Chief Operating Officer President-Elect; Sandra Thompson, Past Jeffrey W. Groton help us to determine where we want to go President, Cara Lee Neville, Past President, in the future and how we plan to get their La Tia Martin, VP-Publications; Joan within the purview of NAWJ’s mission. Program and Publication Assistant Irion, Secretary; Margie Carter, Treasurer; Lavinia Cousin Members will receive in the very near Mary Becnel, Life Member; Dru Ramey, future a brochure outlining the Strategic Executive Director; Jeff Groton, COO; Plan. Linda Evans, Director Missouri Judicial Education. Members whose fl ights JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS AND were cancelled and were unable to DIVERSITY ON THE BENCH attend: Joan Dempsey Klein, Founder; Maggie Robb, VP-Districts, Amy Nectum, NAWJ continues to speak District Director. Other members of the out on issues concerning judicial committee unable to attend: Vanessa appointments and diversity on the bench. Ruiz, Immediate Past President; Dana A letter was sent to President George Fabe, Project Development Director; Sarah W. Bush on October 16, 2006 urging him

2 COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 to nominate a woman jurist to the Court jurisprudence, including Fourth Amendment the draft Conference Policy Manual. After of Appeals for the Armed Forces. As of issues and disaster preparedness and a review and a few updates/changes the October 2006 there were two vacancies recovery for court systems, with a special Conference Policy Manual will be ready on this court, one of which was due to the focus on hurricane-related catastrophes. for prospective conference planning retirement of Honorable Susan Crawford, On Sunday, Judge Cindy Lederman chairpersons in April 2007. The committee the fi rst and only woman to serve on the presented, “Healing Babies and Toddlers in is to be congratulated for producing a Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces. Court: The marriage of Law and Science”. well written and comprehensive manual. The President nominated Margaret A. Ryan, On Saturday, a spectacular luncheon was This manual will institutionalize our way a former Marine prosecutor, former aide to held in honor of the women judicial leaders of doing business as it pertains to annual the Commandant of the Marine Corps, and in the South. Members of the conference conferences. an attorney in private practice. She was committee were: Co-chairs Judge Mary confi rmed prior to the Christmas recess. Becnel and Judge Diana Eagon; Judge Conference Site Selection Committee On October 31, 2007 a letter was sent Maggie Robb, Judge Yvonne Evans, Judge to Alaskan Governor Frank H. Murkowski Ernestine Gray, Judge Cindy Lederman, Judge Sandra Hemphill, chairperson of expressing our concern over his record Judge Barbara Levenson and Judge Denise the Conference Site Selection Committee, of appointment of female judges to the Owens. presented the results of her committee’s Alaska Bench over the course of his fi ndings during the Mid-Year Conference. tenure as Governor. As of October 2006 West Coast Regional Conference This committee has worked very hard and there were four superior court vacancies, explored many venues for future annual two in Anchorage and two in Palmer The West Coast Regional Conference conferences. Alaska. We urged the Governor to fi ll will be held in San Diego, California NAWJ SCHOLARSHIPS three of the openings with the three on August 24-26, 2007. Retired Justice highly qualifi ed women included on the Sandra Day O’Connor will be our guest at the conference and will give the keynote Justice Sandra Day O’Connor list of eight candidates sent to him by the Scholarship Alaska Judicial Council. On November luncheon address on Saturday, August 25, 2007. The general theme of the conference 17, 2007, the Governor appointed two In March 2006 NAWJ presented the fi rst will be Judicial Independence with women to the Palmer Superior Court. Justice Sandra Day O’Connor scholarship emphasis on Judicial Diversity. President- The two appointments are Judge Vanessa in the amount of $2,000.00. The Justice Elect Judge Nan Duffl y will present the White and Judge Karri Kristiansen. O’Connor scholarship will be presented second Justice O’Connor scholarship We wrote to Governor Eliot Spitzer annually. Beginning with the 2007 during the conference. Save the date cards of New York regarding an upcoming presentation, the scholarship amount will and invitations will be mailed immediately appointment to fi ll the current vacancy increase to $5,000.00. This increase was after the Southern Conference. on the New York State Court of Appeals. voted upon and approved by the board of The Governor nominated Justice Second Annual NAWJ Judicial Women directors and general membership in 2006. Theodore Jones, an African American Leaders and Congressional Caucus on male. He was sworn in on March 4, 2007. NAWJ Access to Justice Scholarships Women’s Issues Luncheon Meeting NAWJ voiced its concern in a letter to Each $1,000.00 of a Landmark the editor of the New York Times regarding Co-chairs Judge Vanessa Ruiz and Judge Sponsor’s annual installment of their an article published November 30, 2006, Gladys Kessler have planned a second annual three year contribution is set aside “Lawyers Debate Why Blacks Lag at meeting of NAWJ judicial women leaders for scholarship awards. Any district Major Firms”. We noted that the article and members of the Congressional Caucus planning an event may award the published by the New York Times did not of Women’s Issues. The Congressional NAWJ Access to Justice Scholarship. acknowledge the many bar association Caucus is a bipartisan group that includes On February 16, 2007, the executive and court sponsored diversity studies that all women members of the U.S. House committee voted to recognize the late Judge have documented patterns of racial bias of Representatives. Our fi rst luncheon Jane Bolin with a $1,000.00 scholarship. that continue to impede the progress of meeting included NAWJ presidents, board Any one wanting to present the Access to minorities, especially African-Americans, members, women chief justices, and other Justice Scholarship in the name of Judge Latinos and Native Americans, in large law justices. The purpose of the luncheon Jane Bolin may do so. She was the fi rst fi rms. meeting is to foster a greater appreciation black woman to become a judge in the U.S. and understanding of the proper role of the 2007 REGIONAL CONFERENCES Judge Bolin was appointed as a family court two branches of government. The 2007 judge by Mayor Fiorello H. LaGuardia luncheon meeting will be held in the U.S. Southern Regional Conference in 1939. Judge Bolen was the fi rst black Capitol on Thursday, July 12, 2007. woman to graduate from Yale Law School, The Southern Regional Conference, ANNUAL CONFERENCE POLICIES the fi rst to join the New York City Bar held in Miami, Florida on April Association, and the fi rst to work in the 27-29, 2007, was a great success. Conference Policy Committee offi ce of the New York City corporation The Conference, hosted by Districts counsel, the city’s legal department. She Five and Six, had a two-fold focus: the Conference Policy Chairperson Jennifer retired in 1979 after 40 years as a judge. impact of technology on the courts and Gee and her committee have completed Continued

COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 3 She died at the age of 98 in January 2007. which Speaker Pelosi left to be sworn in technology solutions; and emergency as the fi rst female Speaker of the House. management in the courts. A Law and PRESIDENT’S TRAVELS Later that month, I was invited to Literature Session was held featuring attend the installation of offi cers of the legal author Floyd Abrams, who discussed I had the privilege of representing New York Chapter of NAWJ on Saturday, and autographed his book, “Speaking NAWJ at two magnifi cent events held January 27, 2007, at the Marriott Marquis Freely—Trials of the First Amendment.” to celebrate Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s Hotel in Manhattan, New York. Chief Our President-Elect, Judge Nan Duffl y becoming the fi rst woman to ascend to Judge of the State of New York, Judith attended the District Four Conference the position of Speaker of the House. It S. Kaye, gave the oath of offi ce to the and Spa Retreat in Cambridge, Maryland was fi rst my honor to be a participant in offi cers before a group of one hundred on March 16-18, 2007 and represented a tea honoring both Speaker Pelosi and women judges, lawyers and friends. the executive committee of NAWJ. the Late Honorable Ann Richards, held I represented NAWJ at the Conference My year as president was off to a at the Mellon Auditorium in The Great of Chief Justices Mid-Year Meeting on great start thanks to our executive staff, Hall on the afternoon of January 3, 2007. February 3-7, 2007, in New Orleans, Dru Ramey and Jeff Groton! If you have During the tea, Speaker Pelosi pronounced Louisiana. Education programs were any concerns, suggestions or just general the marble ceiling to have been shattered presented on timely topics such as comments, just remember that I am only an after over 2000 years. I later attended an information technology and the pitfalls of e-mail or telephone call away. Thank you equally uplifting brunch held the following the leadership position; self-represented again for allowing me to lead such a great morning at the Library of Congress, after litigation including information association of women judges.

Executive Director’s Report

BY DRUCILLA STENDER RAMEY, ESQ.

Under the way to creating an absolutely outstanding Luncheon Speech on Judicial Independence leadership of Conference. We are extremely fortunate to on Saturday, August 25th, the conference will President Brenda have the benefi t of the talents of Program feature superb educational presentations Loftin and the Committee Co-Chairs U.S. District Judge by leading academics and jurists on: (1) outstanding NAWJ Anita Brody and Ret’d Judge Phyllis Beck, the differential impact on women and Board, committee as well as those of the nonpareil Bunny minority judges of varying systems of chairs and other Baum, Director of Judicial Services for the selection, retention and evaluation, and; (2) members, the fi rst Pennsylvania Courts, who is handling all of the impact of judicial diversity on judicial half of the NAWJ the venue and procedural logistics. independence and the perceived legitimacy year (November The Philadelphia Friends Committee, of the system of justice. The Friends 2006-present) has superbly chaired by Bobbi Liebenberg, a Committee for this event is a diverse and been challenging and fruitful, presaging partner at Fine Kaplan and Black, includes powerful group of leading San Diego what is shaping up to be a wonderful year a large, diverse and enormously active practitioners, representing the broader San of achievement and growth for NAWJ on group of highly respected representatives Diego legal community, including Abby a great many fronts. I know that President from most of the large corporate and major Silverman, Katy Bacal (President of the San Loftin’s article includes an excellent plaintiffs’ fi rms in Philadelphia, working Diego women’s bar, The Lawyers’ Club), summary of the highlights of the past together with the corporate representatives Theresa Brehl, Juanita Brooks, Janice few months, including a discussion of the on the Committee. The Committee has been Brown, Candace Carroll, Tracy Nation, excellent new Strategic Plan which was indefatigable in its fundraising efforts, and Regina Petty, Anna Roppo and Shirli adopted by the Board in March, and which has ensured that the Conference will meet Weiss. The Judicial Planning Committee will guide us for the next many years. all fi nancial expectations, and will enjoy includes Judges/Justices Joan Irion, Judith I will endeavor here to fl ag just a few the support of the width and breadth of McConnell, Joan Dempsey Klein, Margie upcoming events and recent events and the Philadelphia and greater Pennsylvania Carter, Donna Crandall and Judith Chirlin, projects. legal community. with many more to be added.

Annual Conference, Philadelphia, PA, Southwestern Regional Conference Second Annual Chief Justices/ November 7-12, 2007, Four Seasons August 24-26, 2007, San Diego, CA Congressional Women’s Caucus Hotel Luncheon The Southwestern Regional July 12, 2007, Washington, DC As is clear from the Agenda contained Conference, as more fully described on the elsewhere in this issue, the Philadelphia President’s Page, will be held at the Hilton As you know on July 11, 2006, NAWJ Conference Committee, Co-Chaired by Hotel Mission Bay and the Kroc Institute held an historic meeting at the United U.S. District Judge Norma Shapiro and for Peace and Justice on the University of States Capitol between national women Philadelphia Judge (and past-NAWJ San Diego Campus. Centering on Justice leaders of the judiciary and members of the President) Carolyn Temin, is well on its (Retd) Sandra Day O’Connor’s Keynote Congressional Caucus for Women’s Issues.

4 COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 Twenty-fi ve Chief Justices, Associate Vinson & Elkins and Jackson Lewis, who toddlers, whose actions have brought them Justices, Chief Judges and other judicial also were major contributors, and to our into the court system, how to meaningfully leaders from across the country, including other generous sponsors, Arnold & Porter, and more fully engage and develop their numerous NAWJ Board members and past Creative Capital Inc., Herzfeld & Rubin, children’s cognitive capacities. presidents, met for a luncheon with 18 and Shandell, Blitz, Blitz & Bookson. We are most grateful to our Lead Caucus members representing states from Sponsors, LexisNexis, Akerman Senterfi tt, California to New York. The bi-partisan Southern Regional Conference Holland + Knight, and for the generous group of Caucus representatives included April 27-29, 2007, Miami Beach, FL contributions of Kenny Nachwalter and Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Hilda Solis (D-CA), Carlton Fields. Co-Chair Elect Rep. Lois Capps (D-CA), This Conference, sponsored by Rep. Deborah Pryce, a former judge (R- Districts 5 and 6, and venued at the Growth in Landmark Sponsor OH), Rep. Stephanie Tubbs Jones, also lovely South Beach Savoy Hotel, was co- Program/Resource Board Individual formerly a judge (D-OH), and then-House chaired by Judge Diana Eagon and Judge Commitments Minority Leader Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D- Mary Becnel. In addition to two balmy CA). Twelve of the judges later met with outdoor receptions, one of the Conference For the past two years, NAWJ has Senator Dianne Feinstein. highpoints was the Justices’ Luncheon, pursued a Landmark Sponsor Program, Under the leadership of Judge Gladys featuring and honoring a panel of high- whereby over 25 law fi rms and corporations Kessler and Past President Vanessa Ruiz, level judges from seven Southern states, have committed to contribute, generally, working closely with President Loftin who discussed issues surrounding their $50,000, $30,000, or $20,000 over three and with Resource Board Member Linda advancement to, and retention in, their years in support of NAWJ’s programs. Morgan, Gibson Dunn partner Stephanie current position. The panelists were: Judge $1,000 of each fi rm’s annual gift is set aside Tsacoumis, and others, we are now working Donna Barnes, of the Mississippi Court of for Access to Justice Scholarships, which with the staff of 2007 Caucus Co-Chairs Appeals, Presiding Judge Pamela Baschab are awarded to law students at various Lois Capps (D-CA) and Kathy McMorris of the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals, NAWJ events over the course of the year. Rogers (R-WA), on the Second Women Justice Janice Holder of the Supreme Court I refer you to the full list of Landmark Judicial/Legislative Leadership Luncheon, of Tennessee, Justice Carol Hunstein of Sponsors contained elsewhere in this to be held on July 12, 2007, at the Capitol, the Supreme Court of Georgia, Justice publication, but call your attention to the preceded on July 11th by an informal Barbara Pariente, immediate past Chief new Landmark Sponsors who have made dinner at a private home and followed by a Justice of the Supreme Court of Florida, commitments since November 2006. These meeting with one of more women Senators. Justice Robin Davis of the North Carolina include: We have invited all women serving as State Supreme Court, and Judge Paula Thomas Supreme Court Chief Justices or Chief of the South Carolina Court of Appeals. Platinum Landmark Sponsors: Judge of a federal judicial circuit, as well as The Conference also featured three $50, 000 over three years the NAWJ Executive Committee, and will extraordinary educational sessions. The O’Melveny & Myers be inviting all women serving in the House fi rst, moderated by Judge Patricia Riley, of Representatives. included fascinating presentations by Gold Landmark Sponsors: technology-and-the-law experts Tom $30,000 over three years New York Midyear Meeting Sadaka, Esq., a nationally prominent Boies Schiller & Flexner March 23-25, New York, NY speaker who is of counsel at Berger Sonnenschein Nath & Rosenthal Singerman, and Sonya Strand, Esq., a White & Case LLP In addition to the Board of Directors’ partner and Holland + Knight specializing Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati Meeting and the semi-annual Meeting of in these issues. The second panel focused the NAWJ Resource Board, the highlights on Judicial Preparedness for Disaster, and Bronze Landmark Sponsors: of this year’s Midyear Meeting in fabulous included presentation of moving remarks $10,000 over three years New York City included a Gala Reception and shocking photographic depictions by Folger & Levin Honoring Women Serving in the Federal Judge Jennifer Bailey, Judge Margaret Goodin, MacBride, Squeri, Day & Judiciary and on the New York State Bench, Alfonso, Judge Fredericka Wicker, and Lamprey held at the magnifi cent new Rubin Museum Stacy Bercun, Esq., a partner at Akerman of (Himalayan) Art, a Members’ Reception Senterfi tt. The third program, Healing We also continue to encourage at the historic offi ces of the Association of Babies and Toddlers in Court: The individuals to join the Resource Board, the Bar of the City of New York, and an Marriage of Law and Science, led by Judge with a commitment of $10,000 or more outstanding presentation of Judge Sarah Cindy Lederman, with remarks by Amanda each year. Our newest Resource Board Curley’s new Bankruptcy Program, The McGovern, Esq., a partner at Kenny Member is Elizabeth Cabraser, of Lieff Bankruptcy Card and How to Play It, based Nachwalter, was a riveting presentation Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein (the fi rm on her hot-off-the presses new training centered on a video, available via NAWJ, is also a Gold Landmark Sponsor). syllabus focusing on bankruptcy issues for entitled Bridging the Gap, which is non-bankruptcy judges (and attorneys). We intended to launch a national program to NAWJ Support for Initiatives in are most grateful to Lowenstein Sandler and instruct judges on how to develop court- Furtherance of our Mission LexisNexis, the Lead Sponsors of the New sponsored programs to train parents and York Midyear Meeting, to Thomson/West, other caretakers of at-risk infants and Consistent with appropriate ethical

COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 5 restrictions, and in furtherance of our successful, via the fi nal affi rmative vote speak at and/or be honored at fundraising overarching mission, NAWJ has continued of the House of Delegates at the recent events of these organizations. We also to support initiatives intended to enhance ABA Midyear Meeting in Miami, in our joined the Conference of Chief Justices, access to and equality in the system of efforts to mobilize the national women’s the AJS and other groups in successfully justice. (See article, infra, on Women in and minority bars, and civil rights and opposing last-minute amendments that Prison Committee’s work) legal services groups to convince the would have eliminated, as separately In addition to the actions described in Commission redrafting the Model Code of proscribed, judicial behavior creating the Judge Loftin’s Report, we were ultimately Judicial Conduct to permit judges to attend, appearance of impropriety.

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Thorny Issues continued from page 1 Threats to judicial independence are in an independent judiciary. How do we is a many-faceted process. The people must not new. They have historically come from keep the infl uence of these special interests fi rst understand the court system. Judges the executive and legislative branches. The in check and yet protect everyone’s rights and lawyers must work with the public to legislative or executive branch of govern- of free speech and association? These are help them become better informed about ment may become unhappy with judicial the challenges we face. the work of the courts and to demonstrate decisions and try to infl uence judicial out- For some, judicial elections themselves the value of judicial independence. comes directly or indirectly. are a signifi cant threat to judicial indepen- The public must also have direct in- Threats from the legislative and ex- dence. Over 80% of state trial and appellate volvement in the work of the justice system, ecutive branches continue, sparked by de- judges are elected by the people, and most and must have an opportunity to express cisions on such issues as reapportionment, state judges have limited terms, some as its concerns, criticisms, and suggestions. school funding, reproduction rights, gun little as four years. Without a doubt, cam- Giving the users of the system opportuni- control, tort reform, and affi rmative action. paigns have become nastier, noisier, and ties for involvement in the courts does not Judges must continue to decide these cases costlier than ever before. impede judicial independence. On the con- even though the decisions may have signif- On the other hand, many believe the trary, only with public support for an inde- icant repercussions for the judicial branch appointive system for selecting judges has pendent judiciary can the judiciary be truly as an institution. The three branches of also become a signifi cant threat to deci- independent. government are separate and equal branch- sional judicial independence. The threat I close with the words of Edward Ryan es but the branches are interdependent. here is that the appointive system has in- at the 1846 Wisconsin constitutional con- Will the legislature or executive respond to creasingly turned into a search for people vention: “The function of the judiciary is a judicial decision by refusing to increase with particular views about the law. Lit- interpretation and interpretation cannot be the number of judgeships needed to keep mus tests abound. a representative function. The judiciary up with increasing caseloads? By refusing Yet another threat to judicial indepen- represents no majority, no people. It repre- to appoint judges? By refusing to increase dence is intimidation of judges by vitriolic sents the written law of the land. . . It holds judicial compensation? By refusing to fund criticism and physical violence. Increased the balance, and weighs right between man courthouses and staff? security measures have become necessary and man, between the rich and poor, be- In more recent years, another threat and visible in courthouses across the coun- tween the weak and the powerful.” to judicial independence has come from try. Shirley S. Abrahamson, C. J., concurs. non-governmental groups. Using political, In the long and short run, the basic and social, and economic resources, powerful most important underlying safeguard for ______non-governmental groups are attempting to judicial independence is public support for 1 Chief Justice, Wisconsin Supreme Court. infl uence judicial decision-making by infl u- judicial independence. We must develop This essay is an edited version, with foot- encing the selection and retention of judg- the public’s understanding of, respect for, notes deleted, of the keynote address deliv- es. The danger is that when individuals or and confi dence in the concept of judicial ered by Chief Justice Abrahamson at The groups are highly organized, ideologically independence. We must act now while the Ohio State University on March 21, 2002 driven and well funded, their self-interest public retains confi dence in courts. and published at 64 Ohio St. L.J. 3 (2003). in winning cases overcomes their interest But earning that confi dence and respect

6 COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 We Would Like to Thank Our Supporters NAWJ Mid-Year Leadership Conference NAWJ South Beach Regional Conference:

Lead Sponsors Diamond Lowenstein Sandler PC LexisNexis LexisNexis *** *** Gold Benefactor Akerman Senterfi tt Guy Rounsaville, Jr. Holland & Knight LLP Jackson Lewis LLP *** The Shelley and Donald Rubin Foundation Silver Thomson West Carlton Fields Vinson & Elkins LLP Kenny Nachwalter, P.A. *** Patron Arnold & Porter LLP Creative Capital Inc. Herzfeld & Rubin, P.C. Thank You! Loeb & Loeb LLP Shandell, Blitz, Blitz & Bookson, LLP

LANDMARK SPONSORS Thank you to all of the following law firms, corporations and individuals who have so generously supported NAWJ in its first-ever National Fund Campaign.

DIAMOND SPONSORS - $75,000 over 3 years

LexisNexis® PLATINUM SPONSORS - $50,000 over 3 years GOLD SPONSORS - $30,000 over 3 years

Latham & Watkins LLP Arent Fox PLLC Morrison & Foerster LLP* Audrey Hepburn Children’s Fund O’Melveny & Myers LLP Barbara McConnell Barrett, Esq. Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP Boies Schiller & Flexner LLP Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw & Pittman LLP Elizabeth Cabraser Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP *We would also like to thank Morrison & Foerster Dickstein Shapiro LLP for its generous donation of offi ce space and services in New York City. Fried Frank Harris Shriver & Jacobson LLP J.G. Wentworth SILVER SPONSORS - $20,000 over 3 years Robert Kaufman, Esq. Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein LLP Coblentz, Patch, Duffy & Bass LLP Linda Morgan, Esq. Farella Braun + Martel LLP Paul, Hastings, Janofsky and Walker LLP Hunton & Williams LLP Guy Rounsaville, Jr., Exec. V.P.-General Counsel, La Salle Bank Morgan Lewis & Bockius LLP Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP & Affi liates Shook, Hardy & Bacon LLP Sonnenschein Nath & Rosenthal LLP Anonymous Thomson/West White & Case LLP Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr, LLP BRONZE SPONSORS - $10,000 over 3 years Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati Foundation

Flemming Zulack Williamson Zauderer LLP SPONSORS - $5,000 over 3 years Folger Levin & Kahn LLP Goodin, MacBride, Squeri, Day & Lamprey, LLP Taylor & Company Law Offi ces, Inc.

COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 7 NAWJ Outreach to Law Schools will be appreciated since we are just enter- Krauss, Leslie Stein and Jacqueline Silber- ing formation mode. I would appreciate an man respectively. The remaining 8 are in The New York chapter NAWJ meeting e-mail reply at your earliest convenience. the works. Additional kudos to the many in January 2006 culminated in a decision to I may also be reached at (718) 520-3501. other judicial panelists who shared their embark upon a very targeted outreach pro- Thank you wisdom and experiences with our younger gram between our judges and our New York Once all our membership was on board legal colleagues. state women law students. I have had the I contacted the deans of our 15 New York It was also a great opportunity to let honor of chairing this program and shep- Law Schools with the following letter... the law students know of the special stu- herding it through its planning stages. The The New York chapter of the National dent membership opportunities of NAWJ. letter of intent I sent out to our membership Association of Women Judges (NAWJ) is I would be interested in hearing from any received wide support and particularized embarking upon an outreach program to other chapters who have mounted similar all our goals. It read as follows... every law school in New York State. We efforts. The membership has indicated that would like to offer your students, our future it wishes to support an outreach effort to members, an opportunity to meet with a Regards, women law students throughout the state delegation of New York State women judg- Sheri Roman of New York. We are concerned that our es to discuss our history, career paths and future young colleagues have not had the opportunities. This would provide a forum DONATE TODAY FOR THE NAWJ opportunity to familiarize themselves with to discuss the balancing act that must be SILENT AUCTION! the history of the struggles and dedication navigated by women in order to enjoy both that led to women comprising 50% of the the bench and a family life. Donate jewelry, sporting goods, hand- student body at most law schools. We would be prepared to visit your bags, artwork, gift certifi cates to theater Also, many law students are concerned law school on a mutually convenient day. or sporting events, etc. about their ability to integrate a professional I will be telephoning you shortly to see if life with a family life. Some do not think it you would like to participate in this proj- See the registration form in this issue! is possible. Many of us believe that a meet- ect and what format would best suit your ing, in a small forum format, with women students. Plan to bid the night away in each New York law school, could enable I can also be reached by e-mail (sro- NAWJ 29th Annual Conference us to share our wisdom and experiences at [email protected]) or telephone (718- November 11, 2006 a stage in these womens lives that will be 520-3501). The NAWJ is looking forward Four Seasons Hotel, Philadelphia, PA meaningful and memorable. They are in to initiating this interactive event which we the pool from which future NAWJ mem- believe will be invigorating and benefi cial For more information, contact bers will emerge. Also, no matter where to both our membership and your students. Silent Auction Committee Co-Chairs: their law degrees lead them, it can only be To date we have sponsored 7 pro- Fran Shapiro, Esq., [email protected] benefi cial for all to have this opportunity grams, all with an individualized format. Judge Sheila Woods-Skipper, to engage. The programs at St. John’s, Cardozo, [email protected] Please let me know if you wish to Pace, CUNY, Touro, Albany and Ford- participate in this outreach effort, whether ham Law were chaired by Judges Mary All proceeds will be applied directly to the work of at your alma mater, or at any other law O’Donoghue, Deborah Kaplan, Terry Jane the National Association of Women Judges and are school, or both. Of course, all suggestions Ruderman, Diccia Pineda-Kirwan, Sarah tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

Hope to See You There! 29th Annual NAWJ Conference November 7 - 11, 2007 Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia, PA

Mark your calendar now.

Watch our Web site for additional information http://www.nawj.org Four Seasons Hotel

8 COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 Bridging the Gap: A Writing resulted in more and more women and girls velop a published anthology of the writings Workshop being arrested, detained and incarcerated, of the women inmates that can be shared by Vicki Lopez Lukis and Hon. Cindy often for very long periods of time, Vicki with the GAP girls. ArtSpring engaged its Lederman Lopez Lukis is determined to break this vi- advanced Inside Out program participants cious cycle. who had been in the program at least fi ve Envision fi nding yourself in prison and Her work with girls in detention high- years at both Homestead Correctional In- wondering how to make sense of this new lighted the urgent need to intervene in the stitution, located in Florida City, and Bro- and unexpected journey. This is exactly lives of these at-risk girls to teach them that ward Correctional Institution, located in where former Lee County Commissioner, every action has a consequence. Each time Pembroke Pines, in a specifi cally designed Vicki Lopez Lukis found herself in 1999 she told her own story about her prison ex- creative writing program that addressed, when she self-surrendered to FCC Cole- perience, she saw the power of someone through personal narrative essays, answers man, a female minimum-security federal who had “walked the walk and talked the to questions that were posed by the girls in prison. She began serving a 27-month sen- talk”. She invited other ex-offenders to GAP, including the realities of being incar- tence for honest services mail fraud for ly- talk with the girls, bringing into detention cerated. ing to a newspaper reporter about an affair the stories of women who had “been there, Bridging the Gap is expected to edu- that she was having with her then boyfriend, done that” and who desperately wanted to cate female juvenile offenders on the is- a lawyer lobbyist, and now husband. save the girls from following in their own sues related to the criminal mistakes made Few individuals who were voted most footsteps. by female adult inmates who are serving likely to succeed by their high school class In the absence of being able to bring long, and in most cases, life sentences for and one of the youngest persons to gradu- together the women in prison and girls in their crimes. The life experiences shared by ate from the University of Notre Dame detention for a series of meaningful dia- the women inmates will benefi t the girls in would ever believe that their charmed and logues around the negative impacts of in- detention by giving life to real stories that privileged life could take a sudden and bi- carceration, she developed a writing work- have ended in real tragedy. The women zarre twist. Yet this harrowing experience shop to “bridge” this gap. Thus was born will be able to highlight their regrets and provided a unique opportunity for Ms. Lu- Bridging the Gap: A Writing Workshop. the losses they have experienced, such as kis to go “inside” to see fi rsthand the fastest Bridging the Gap, represents a unique part- the loss of families and freedom since their growing industry in America and experi- nership between the Florida Departments incarceration. The objective is to share ex- ence the impact of incarceration. of Corrections and Juvenile Justice; com- periences of the women inmates to help the On November 21, 2000, President Clinton munity volunteer, Vicki Lopez Lukis; the girls reject unhealthy relationships, sub- commuted Ms. Lukis’ sentence. Upon re- Girls Advocacy Project (GAP), an award- stance abuse and the temptation to become turning home to Miami-Dade County, she winning intervention program for girls de- involved in future criminal activity. has worked tirelessly on behalf of women tained in Juvenile Detention Centers found- The Annie E. Casey Foundation, in prison, girls in detention and ex-offend- ed by The Honorable Cindy Lederman; and whose primary mission is to foster public ers who are released and return home to ArtSpring, Inc., an arts organization whose policies, human service reforms, and com- Florida’s communities. She has emerged mission is to support self-growth and ef- munity supports that more effectively meet as a well-respected authority on these is- fective life skills through art-making for the needs of today’s vulnerable children sues. underserved and institutionalized women and families, funded a national documenta- Responding to a growing crisis in our and girls. ry about the project. Please contact NAWJ country and particularly in Florida that has The objective of this project is to de- for a complimentary copy of this DVD.

Reception for Military Judge recently designated as the Appointing Au- cerning issues the Military Courts Commit- Course Sponsored by District 4 thority for the military commissions trying tee is considering. Proposed changes to the April 23, 2007 the Guantanamo Bay detainees. jurisdiction of military judges over cases At the conclusion of the fi rst day of the and enhanced contempt authority for trial Charlottesvlle, VA course, the students and faculty adjourned judges were among the issues discussed. by Denise Vowell for an icebreaker co- sponsored by District 4. The 50th Military Judge Course Colonel (Retired) Denise opened in Charlottesville, VA, at The Judge Vowell, Chair of NAWJ’s Advocate General’s Center and School, lo- Military Courts Commit- cated on the University of Virginia’s North tee and former Chief Trial Grounds campus. Over 50 military judge Judge of the Army, repre- candidates from the Army, Navy, Marine sented NAWJ at the event. Corps, and Coast Guard were in atten- Several students ex- dance; approximately 15% of the students pressed interest in joining were women. The course opened with an NAWJ upon certifi cation address by the Honorable Susan Crawford, as military judges and the former Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals icebreaker involved some for the Armed Forces. Judge Crawford was lively discussions con-

COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 9 Appellate Women Judges of their contributions to the legal profession active member of the Fordham Law Alumni Honored in New York and to their community. Justice Altman, Association, and teaches at the law school. by Hon. Rosalyn Richter who passed away in 2005, was appointed Justice Gangel Jacob, who now is serving to the Appellate Division in 1994, having as a Judicial Hearing Offi cer in the Supreme On March 6, in honor of Women’s started her judicial career in 1978 and was a Court, sat on the Appellate Term from History Month, the Anti-Bias Committee co-author of a widely used treatise on New 1999 until her retirement last year. She has of the Supreme Court, Civil Branch, York Civil Practice Before Trial. Justice taught family law both in the United States New York County, honored former and Ciparick, who is an Associate Justice of and abroad. Justice Mazzarelli, currently current Appellate Justices from the First the New York Court of Appeals, was the the only woman sitting on the Appellate Department who had sat as trial judges fi rst Hispanic on that court and has been Division, First Department, began serving in the Supreme Court. The event was serving there since 1994. She is a former on that court in 1995, ten years after her moderated by the Hon. Betty Weinberg member of the New York Judicial Conduct fi rst election as a judge. Prior to her Ellerin, who retired in 2005 afer serving as Commission, and received the President’s elevation to the appellate bench, she sat in a Justice of the New York State Appellate medal from her alma mater Hunter College. both civil and criminal parts, and chaired Division, First Department, for over 20 Justice Freedman served on the Appellate the Anti-Bias Committee of the Supreme years. Justice Ellerin, who now is senior Term, First Department from 1995 to 1999, Court. Edith Miller, a pioneer, was the counsel in the Litigation and Trial Practice and now sits in the Commercial Division fi rst African American woman to serve on Group at Alston & Bird, has a long list of of the Supreme Court. She is a recognized the Appellate Term, First Department, and accomplishments too numerous to mention expert on mass torts, and has written a book began her judicial career in family court. in this article, and has been a trailblazer entitled New York Objections. Justice Glen, She served as chairperson of the New York for women judges in New York and now one of two Surrogates in New York Court’s Commission on Minorities. nationally. County, was appointed to the Appellate Justice Ellerin, in her remarks, commented The honorees at this event were: Hon. Term, First Department in 1992 and became on how far women had come in the legal Miriam Altman (posthumously); Hon. Dean of CUNY Law School when she left profession and in the judiciary, but noted Carmen Beauchamp Ciparick; Hon. Helen the bench in 1995. Justice Glen was the that we still had far to go. Everyone in the E. Freedman; Hon. Kristen Booth Glen; fi rst co-chair of the Supreme Court’s anti- room shared her pleasure at the collective Hon. Sherry Klein Heitler; Hon. Phyllis bias committee. Justice Klein Heitler, the achievements of these accomplished jurists Gangel Jacob; Hon. Angela M. Mazzarelli; most recently appointed appellate judge in and her hope that we would have more and Hon. Edith I. Miller (posthumously). this group, now sits on the Appellate Term, women appellate judges to honor in the A brief summary of the judicial service of First Department, and began her judicial future. career in 1994 in the Civil Court. She is an these remarkable women shows the breadth Justice Richter sits on the NY County Supreme Court. Law Journal York Rick Kopstein/New

10 COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 U. S. Magistrate Judge Celeste F. Bremer at a meeting of the Karnataka, India Women’s Bar Association January 26, 2007 NAWJ

Judge Irion and Judge Thompson at the Bankruptcy Program held in NY at the mid year meeting. Photo Album

Texas Color of Justice Program. From left to right: Jus- tice Bea Ann Smith, Laura Pena (recipient) and Judge Elisabeth A. Earle

Texas Judges at NAWJ Annual Conference in Las Vegas

District 14 Orange County Reception, January 25, 2007. Congresswoman, Loretta Sanchez presented the scholarship to Princess Cooper, a student at Western State School of Law in Fullerton. Left to right: Rep. Mary Grant; Rep. Storey; Supreme Judicial Court Clerk for Suffolk County Maura Doyle; Superior Court Judge Geraldine Hines; Rep. Gloria Fox

Left to right: Supreme Judicial Court Chief Justice Margaret H. Marshall; Department of Correc- Judge Sue Yang, David Tevelin (NAWJ Resource Board Member), Judge Loftin and Judge Murnane tions Commissioner Kathleen Dennehy; Information Technology Division Acting Chief Informa- at a reception at the Mid year meeting in NY. tion Officer Bethann Pepoli; Department of Youth Services Commissioner Jane Tewksbury; Sec- retary of Labor and Workforce Development Suzanne Bump; Maureen McGee, Deputy Legal Counsel for Governor Patrick; and Judicial Nominating Commission Vice-Chair Elizabeth Morse

District 2 Second Annual Regional Conference

COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 11 Immigration Law: A Topic Of in a rise in the introduction of alienage laws pact on non-citizens in removal proceed- Interest To All in local and state legislatures as cities and ings for controlled substance By Lenni B. Benson and Lindsay A. states try to manage immigration and sur- offenses. Pursuant to Lopez, fi rst-time, Curcio rounding issues. Proposed laws regulating state simple possession offenses (except zoning, access to education and healthcare for possession of more than fi ve grams of Patricia, only fi fteen years old, left her and even the grant of citizenship to those crack cocaine and possession of fl unitraz- home in Colombia last summer and entered children born within the United States, epam) are not considered aggravated felo- the United States surreptitiously, in search make headlines daily. nies for immigration purposes, even if the of her mother who came to Manhattan in The fi eld of immigration law is con- state law classifi es them as such. This fi nd- 1995, looking for work. Lawful permanent stantly evolving but in the last twenty years, ing will allow qualifi ed individuals to apply resident, Sally, mother, wife and emergen- there have been many major changes in the for more types of relief while in removal cy room nurse in Queens, was convicted governing statute, The Immigration and proceedings. of shoplifting again and sentenced to more Nationality Act, found in Title 8 of the U.S. Given the diverse experience of the than a year in jail although she only served Code. These changes have had a profound judges in the audience, we discussed fi ve months. Maria and her family crossed effect on the lives of not only legal and un- whether a judge or a criminal defense at- the border from Mexico to the U.S. without documented immigrants, but also their U.S. torney has a constitutional duty or obliga- inspection almost ten years ago. Maria’s citizen family members. Changes include: tion to advise a non-citizen defendant of children attend public school. Maria works the implementation of civil and criminal the potential immigration consequences of as a cook and wants to go to court to re- employer sanctions, stricter examination his or her plea or a fi nding of guilty by the quest pay her employer owes her. Anna of applications for immigration based on jury. While the criminal defense attorney was born in East Hampton. She has a good marriage to U.S. citizens, the availability and the court must advise a defendant of job working for a university, but she does of increased relief for abused spouses and the direct consequences of a plea, deci- not have a driver’s license, state identifi ca- for unaccompanied minor children and the sions regarding collateral consequences are tion card or passport. expansion of grounds of removability for varied in courts throughout the U.S. The These are a few of the stories we shared criminal convictions resulting in the de- judges shared how they handle this issue in with the judges who attended the regional portation of lawful permanent residents their courtrooms. conference in Albany, New York on April living in the U.S. for decades. The afternoon provided an opportunity 26th. We began the afternoon by provid- Today, convictions and sentencing af- to show how immigration law can play an ing participants with case studies. While fect the ability of a non-citizen to apply important role in relation to many areas of the characters were fi ctitious, the diffi cul- for immigration benefi ts and remain in local, state and federal law. As immigra- ties they faced were not. Immigration now the United States. Offenses which require tion and immigration issues continue to be reaches beyond the border and is deeply in- close examination for immigration pur- so prevalent in our state and our country, tegrated with many state law issues. poses are crimes involving moral turpitude, continuing legal education regarding these As the judges explored the charac- aggravated felonies, controlled substance issues for judges and attorneys working in ters, we asked them to imagine how they violations, fi rearms and domestic violence. all areas of law will help to ensure that im- would prove their immigration status in Convictions for any of these types of of- migration status is a consideration in many the United States. How could they docu- fenses limit the kinds of relief for which types of procedures. ment their identity for such commonplace a non-citizen may apply when in removal We ended the program with an invita- tasks as proving eligibility to work, rent- proceedings in Immigration Court. Con- tion to help state judges who need informa- ing an apartment, opening a bank account, victions that may be considered minor in tion about immigration law and collateral or obtaining retirement benefi ts. Less that state courts, frequently have serious ramifi - consequences of state law matters. If either fi fteen percent of U.S. citizens have a pass- cations in Immigration Court. of us can be of assistance, we hope you will port. Proving status can be a challenge for The Honorable Immigration Judge contact us at New York Law School. anyone and is critical to employment and Theresa Holmes-Simmons provided the Lenni B. Benson is a professor at New York Law obtaining most benefi ts. audience with information about the inter- section of immigration, criminal and family School and Co-Director of the Justice Action Center. In our three hour session we explored Lindsay A. Curcio is an Attorney and Adjunct Profes- key concepts in immigration law. Briefl y, law with an account of what happens when sor at New York Law School. immigration law determines who is able a non-citizen is placed in removal proceed- to enter the U.S., for how long and what ings in Immigration Court. She discussed purpose. It also provides who must be de- the types of cases decided in Immigration ported or removed following entry. There Court including review of asylum claims, was a discussion of the federal government marriage-based visa petitions, special im- agencies that administer immigration law. migrant juvenile petitions and possible re- Tell A Friend We were joined by the Honorable Immi- lief from deportation for non-citizens who gration Judge Theresa Holmes-Simmons have committed crimes following entry to About NAWJ who explained the role of the Department the U.S. Today! of Justice, Executive Offi ce for Immigra- Judge Holmes-Simmons also dis- tion Review. cussed a recent U.S. Supreme Court case While immigration law is federal, to- from December 2006, Lopez v. Gonzales. http://www.nawj.org day’s anti-immigrant climate has resulted The Court’s fi nding in Lopez has a big im-

12 COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 STAFF CORNER

Jeff Groton, Renaissance Man past few months, and we are deeply grate- tour as a video producer-director in the Air by Drucilla Stender Ramey, NAWJ ful. To use a famous ’90’s term, Jeff has Force. In June 2007, she will receive a Executive Director been, for this organization, simply the ne certifi cate from the Institute for Docu- plus ultra of je ne sais quoi. mentary Filmmaking, a six-month intense A great many graduate-level program at the George of you have NAWJ Says Farewell Washington University. worked, in one way Additionally, (in her spare time) or another, with In February Stephanie is a freelance video produc- NAWJ’s Chief Op- 2007, NAWJ bid tion professional (www.stealingjoy.com). erating Offi cer, Jeff a fond farewell to A consummately talented writer, pro- Groton, some of Program and Pub- ducer, director, videographer, and editor, you quite frequent- lications Assistant Stephanie occasionally works as a pro- ly, and often on Stephanie Brown. duction assistant for other local producers events and activi- A former Air Force and over the years has produced a number ties that have meant a great deal to you and Communications of short fi lms and has edited several TV to NAWJ. For those of you who haven’t, and Information commercials. perhaps, had the pleasure and privilege of Systems Offi cer, Stephanie joined NAWJ Stephanie is currently Director of working with Jeff, we thought it time to in January 2006, bringing with her a unique Photography on a student documentary give you just a little sense of this remark- background and skills-set that proved to be fi lm and is in the pre-production phase of able man and his pivotal role in making all invaluable to us. her fi rst documentary fi lm. Always one to things possible at NAWJ. Among the vast variety of responsi- fi nish what she starts, Stephanie is commit- Jeff came to NAWJ in late 2002, bring- bilities she undertook during her tenure at ted to becoming a member of the bar so that ing to the organization his over 20 years of NAWJ, Stephanie worked with our leader- she may provide legal assistance to low- business operations and fi nancial manage- ship to transform Counterbalance into a income individuals on a part-time basis. ment experience. (Parenthetically, Jeff also highly substantive, attractive and profes- She plans to take the Maryland State Bar has a quite separate identity as a successful sional communications vehicle, universally Exam in February 2008. real estate entrepreneur.) Born and bred acclaimed by NAWJ’s leadership and mem- NAWJ has been indeed fortunate to on Maryland’s fabled Eastern Shore, Jeff bers. She also used her considerable sub- be the benefi ciary of this extraordinary served one tour of duty in the United States stantial knowledge and skills in computer constellation of personal and professional Air Force, after which he received his B.S. programming and graphic design to com- aptitudes, skills and experience. We thank in Business from the Perdue School of pletely overhaul and professionalize our Stephanie for her hard work and dedication Business. Upon his relocation to Washing- Website, www.nawj.org, including design- and wish her the very best of luck in all of ton, D.C., Jeff held positions ranging from ing and integrating a Members Only section her future endeavors. Vice President of Banking Operations to with dynamic profi le updates and online Managing Director of Human Resources event registration. At the same time, she NAWJ Welcomes Lavinia Cousin and Administration, following which he redesigned our monthly electronic Monthly decamped to New York to serve as COO of Update, transforming it from a simple text NAWJ is a management consulting fi rm. It was our e-mail into a compellingly enhanced, two- thrilled to welcome great good fortune that in the aftermath of way e-mail communication. Throughout Lavinia Cousin as 9/11 Jeff chose to return to Washington to this period, Stephanie also served as an in- Program and Pub- join the NAWJ staff. valuable administrative and program assis- lication Assistant. To say that Jeff is responsible for all as- tant, as well as a critical sounding board, to Born in Baltimore, pects of business operations, fi nancial man- both Jeff Groton and Dru Ramey, helping MD, she has over agement, event planning, Board support, to make our every undertaking and task a 10 years experience Committee liaison, and meeting logistics, success. And all this while matriculating as in development, re- not to say compassionate staff supervision a full-time law student at the Georgetown search and marketing for nonprofi t theatre and unfailing support for the Executive Di- University Law Center! organizations. One of her favorite regions rector, does not begin to capture the broad Stephanie received her B.A. in Eng- in the world is the San Francisco Bay Area universe of Jeff’s acumen, creativity, skills lish from University of Detroit in 1992, where she lived for eight years with Yosem- and responsibilities. With his unfailingly an M.A. in Video Production and Graphic ite, Mendocino and Big Sur as her frequent cheerful (but never pollyanna) mien, un- Design from the University of Baltimore in stomping grounds. fl appable nature and sí se puede attitude, 1999, and her J.D. from Georgetown just A philosophy graduate of Mount Holy- Jeff undertakes to provide overarching this past month in 2007. While she fi nds oke College, she credits experience living leadership as well as detailed logistical the legal fi eld exciting and is grateful for in an environment for women for imprint- guidance, and does so with great intel- the outstanding education she has received, ing an awareness of the importance of ligence and grace. His talents have been Stephanie is now pursuing her passion for achieving fairness and gender equality, and of particularly central importance over the fi lmmaking, which was ignited during her the vigilance required.

COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 13 NAWJ 29th Annual Conference “We The People”

Reserve your room now! NAWJ 29th Annual Conference Historic Philadelphia, PA November 7 - 11, 2007

Hotel: Conference Attendees will enjoy the comforts of the spectacular Four Seasons Hotel in Philadelphia, PA. Room rates are $198.00 Single and $228.00 Double. Register today to ensure you are able to take advantage of this amazing rate. The group identifier is National Association of Women Judges. Call today! 1-866-516-1100 or 215-963-1500.

Friends of NAWJ Committee Roberta D. Liebenberg, Chair Stephanie Resnick, Co- Chair Judy Leone, Bob Heim Ellen Meriwether Deborah R. Gross Emily Lawrence Eleanor Illoway Jayne Goldstein Barbara Sicalides Marguerite S. Walsh Thomas Brophy Bernadine Munley, Lynn Rzonca Paula Schaffner, Diane Anderson Robert L. Ostrov, Esq. Joan Stern Claire DeMatteis, Julia Rafferty, Leslie Ben Leace Elaine Rinaldi, Julie Negovan Greenspan Andy Barroway Jane Dalton, Sharon Caffrey Wanda Flowers Andrew Chirls Stephanie Resnick Nicholas E. Chimicles, Kim Donaldson Deborah Willig Claudia Springer Albert G. Bixler Kathleen Wilkinson Catherine Jasons ********************************************************************************************************************************* We would like to thank our early supporters! (As of June 7, 2007)

Premier Sponsors Dechert LLP Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP Pepper Hamilton LLP Gold Sponsors Bronze Sponsors Ballard Spahr Andrews & Ingersoll, LLP Chimicles & Tikellis LLP Blank Rome LLP Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC Feldman, Shepherd, Wohlgelernter, Tanner & Weinstock Cozen O’Connor First Advantage Duane Morris LLP JAMS Fox Rothschild LLP Kelley Jasons McGowan Spinelli & Hanna, LLP Reed Smith LLP Knipes-Cohen Court Reporting Kroll Law Offices Bernard M. Gross, P.C. Mager & Goldstein LLP Silver Sponsors Marshall, Dennehey, Warner, Coleman & Goggin, P.C. Cafferty Faucher LLP Miller, Alfano & Raspanti Capsicum Group, LLC Peachtree Settlement Funding Esquire Deposition Services, LLC RatnerPrestia, P.C. Golkow Litigation Technologies Schiffrin Barroway Topaz & Kessler, LLP Harkins Cunningham LLP Schnader Harrison Segal & Lewis LLP Littler Mendelson, P.C. Wolf, Block, Schorr and Solis-Cohen LLP Saul Ewing LLP Willig, Williams & Davidson Stradley Ronon Stevens Wilson Elser Moskowitz Edelman & Dicker LLP Sunoco, Inc. Woodcock Washburn LLP

14 COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 NAWJ 29th ANNUAL CONFERENCE PRELIMINARY SCHEDULE Subject to change For up-to-date conference information, visit us at http://www.nawj.org/conference.asp

Wednesday, November 7, 2007

Noon - 5:30 pm Registration Desk your Noon - 4:00 pm Board lunch and Meeting (Four Seasons Hotel) Make today! 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm New Judge Program plans

6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Opening Reception (Four Seasons Hotel)

8:00 pm - Midnight Hospitality Suite open (Four Seasons Hotel)

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Thursday, November 8, 2007

7:30 am - 5:00 pm Registration Desk

7:30 am Continental Breakfast

8:30 am Opening session: Welcome and Comments by dignitaries

9:00 am - 9:30 am President Brenda Stith Loftin’s Report

9:30 am - 10:45 am First Plenary Session Separation of Powers: What does it mean? Moderators: Professor Charles J Ogletree, Jr. Harvard Law School

Jessie Climenko Professor of Law and Vice Dean for Clinical Programs

Panelists: Honorable Marjorie O. Rendell 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals and First Lady of Pennsylvania

Honorable Deannell R. Tacha 10th Circuit Court of Appeals

11:00 am - Noon Second Plenary Session Public Perception of Women Judges Speaker: Lisa Scottoline, Esq., Author

12:15 pm - 1:45 pm Luncheon and Keynote Speaker (Four Seasons Hotel) Speaker: Professor Penny J. White Interim Director of the Center for Advocacy and Associate Professor of Law University of Tennessee College of Law

1:45 pm Buses to Constitution Center

COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 15 2:15 pm - 3:15 pm Third Plenary Session (Constitution Center) The Roberts Court Evolving Speaker: Professor Pamela S. Karian Stanford Law School Kenneth and Harle Montgomery Professor Public Interest Law

3:15 pm - 5:00 pm Constitution Center activities

5:30 pm - 7:30 pm Reception (Constitution Center) Dinner on your own (All receptions will feature substantial h’ors d’ouvres so dinner is optional)

8:00 pm - midnight Hospitality Suite open (Four Seasons Hotel)

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Friday, November 9, 2007

7:00 am - 5:00 pm Registration Desk

7:30 am - 9:00 am District meetings over breakfast

9:15 am - 10:15 am Fourth Plenary Session (Four Seasons Hotel) The Innocence Project (PWB) Moderator: Hon. Carolyn Temin Panelist: Maddy Delone, Esq. Madame Justice Cynthia Baldwin PA Supreme Court

10:30 am - 11:00 am Fifth Plenary Session (Four Seasons Hotel) TOVA - a dramatic presentation about women in prison

Noon - 2:00 pm Luncheon Fundraiser (Park Hyatt at the Bellevue) Speaker: Judith Rodin, Ph.D. President The Rockefeller Foundation

2:30 pm - 3:30 pm Sixth Plenary Session (Four Seasons Hotel) Immigration Law: Its impact on Women Panelist: Mary Campbell McQueen President National Center for State Courts

Rosalind Malloy Immigration Judge

Professor Deborah Anker Harvard law School Immigration Clinic

3:45 pm - 5:00 pm Seventh Plenary Session (Four Seasons Hotel) Gender and Sexuality Law in the 21st Century Moderator: TBD Panelists: Professor Suzanne Goldberg Columbia Law School - Evolving Norms of Gender and Sexuality

16 COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 Professor Elizabeth M. Schneider, Rose L. Hoffer Professor of Law, Brooklyn Law School - New Perspectives on The Law of Domestic Violence

Professor Minna Kotkin Brooklyn Law School - Invisible Settlements, Invisible Discrimination

3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Resource Board meeting, second hour of which is with NAWJ Board of Directors

4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Joint Meeting Resource Board & Board Directors

5:30 pm Reception (PA Academy of Fine Arts) Dinner on your own

8:00 pm Hospitality Suite open (Four Seasons Hotel)

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Saturday, November 10, 2006

7:30 am - 2:00 am Registration Desk

7:30 am - 9:00 am Continental Breakfast and Panel on International Judges

9:00 am - 10:15 am Eighth Plenary Session (Four Seasons Hotel) International Justice for Women Speakers: Trudy Rubin Reporter, Philadelphia Inquirer

Shirin Tahir-Kheli Special Assistant to the President and National Security Council Senior Director for Democracy, Human Rights and International Operations

10:30 am - 11:45 am NAWJ Joint Business Meeting & Election of Officers

Noon - 1:30 pm Luncheon & Investiture of Officers (Afternoon on your own)

7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Banquet & Awards Dinner (Four Seasons Hotel)

10:00 pm Hospitality Suite open (Four Seasons Hotel)

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Sunday, November 11, 2007 Join us 7:30 - 10:30am Registration Desk for our 29th

7:30am Continental Breakfast Annual Conference 8:30 New Board meeting (Four Seasons)

COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 17 EVENTS

District 4 Reception with enacted by the Legislature, but to assure from the press, which attacks judges, and Women’s Bar Association that legislation conforms with the higher subjects them to criticism for decisions that law of the constitution. do not accord with what they perceive to Washington DC—Members of NAWJ Judge Leonie M. Brinkema, USDC, be the “will of the people.” He argued that District 4 joined with members of the EDVA responded that she had a more Judges need to follow the law, not what is Women’s Bar Association of the District pragmatic view of the topic. She noted popular; otherwise, the Bill of Rights would of Columbia at a joint Judicial Reception that. many recent issues concerning be greatly diminished. The Bar needs to be in the imposing court room of the U.S. judicial independence stem from review vigilant to support and defend the judiciary, Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit of executive action, unlike the review he said. on February 21, 2007. After a thought of legislative action described by Dean Judge Brinkema noted that there is no provoking panel discussion on Judicial Lawrence. Life tenure is an essential clear “will of the people” most of the time, Independence, moderated by Judge Delissa ingredient for judges to feel the ability given the wide diversity of our population, Ridgeway of the U.S. Court of International to fi nd actions unconstitutional by the and that the relationships between the Trade, and a former President of the WBA, President of the US. branches is never static, and is ever in fl ux. we gathered for a reception in the elegant John Nields, Howrey a leading In response to a question about whether rooms of the Dolley Madison House, which practitioner in Washington, who is currently the selection process itself does not impact has been preserved and is now part of the serving on the Council for Court Excellence, on independence, Dean Lawrence made Federal Courthouse. which is charged with reviewing the judicial the point that judges sometimes surprise During the panel discussion, Dean system for DC, noted that much of the the president who appointed them. It was Frederick M. Lawrence, of the George current challenge to independence comes also observed that judges themselves are Washington University Law School, put not static, and that long serving judges the topic in historical perspective, citing usually adjust their thinking over time, the doctrine of judicial review, which was and move more toward the center. Dean enshrined in Marbury v Madison, as an Lawrence mentioned the importance of essential ingredient. He pointed out that the constitutional guarantee of life tenure. the doctrine was not invented by Chief He observed that had the judiciary been Justice John Marshall, but had previously not mentioned in the Constitution, and left been articulated by Alexander Hamilton merely to the Legislature for its creation, in the Federalist papers. Thus, our system he is certain that life tenure would not have gives the judiciary the responsibility not been bestowed. only to interpret the meaning of legislation

NAWJ’s Women in Prison planned activities encouraged people to that women wanted information on. Project move together or to react individually to a This project was possible because of by Hon. Brenda P. Murray song or to poetry through speech or action. NAWJ’s cachet and the speakers’ good will By the end of the hour, the transformation and generosity. NAWJ members Judge M. In early 2005, a friend who knows of the participants was visible. Everyone Brooke Murdock and Judge Irma Raker I am active in NAWJ’s Women in Prison was smiling and obviously in a better frame were terrifi c. The rest of the speakers Project asked me to assist Nancy Havlik, of mind. At the inmates’ request, Nancy agreed to participate based on cold calls a choreographer, who wanted to teach conducted a second session in September- from me as a volunteer for NAWJ’s creative dance to incarcerated women. October 2005. The next session begins on Women in Prison Project. Law librarians Because of NAWJ, I am familiar with March 8, 2006. Joan Bellistri and Janet Camillo designed the Maryland Correctional Institution When we met in January 2005, relative a Power Point presentation and located for Women (MCIW), Maryland’s only to Nancy’s workshop, Warden Brenda Shell several law books that they donated to the women’s prison, located between Baltimore asked whether NAWJ could organize an MCIW library. Only one person who was and Washington, D.C. MCIW houses some educational program for about 200 MCIW invited to participate said no. 975 residents. I made a written submission residents who are serving sentences of over We will have evaluations from the to the Warden who accepted Nancy’s twenty-fi ve years. These women believe 30 to 60 women who have attended the offer to conduct a Creative Movement that they receive few programs because the sessions, but the feedback with three more Workshop inside the prison one night a prison’s programming is to prepare inmates sessions to go is positive. Each jurisdiction week for eight weeks in March and April for release. has different needs; however, it might be 2005. Nancy restricted enrollment to ten On May 31, 2005, Assistant Professor that a similar program could be organized to fi fteen women so that everyone could Leigh Goodmark, University of Baltimore elsewhere. I would be glad to assist anyone receive individual attention. Between eight School of Law, who volunteered to assist, who wanted to try to do so. and twelve women attended each session. Warden Shell, and I met with a large People entered the session quiet and number of inmates at Jessup. We devised Judge Murray is Co-chair, Women in sometimes in obvious distress. Nancy’s the following program based on the subjects Prison Project.

18 COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 District Report: Women in Prison the class of 20 receives a textbook and a was one of the few sessions where race was Project notebook to be used as a personal journal, not a large part of the discussion. Instead, complete challenging reading and writing the emphasis was on happy times, family, Since its inception, NAWJ has initiated, via assignments, and at group sessions read and hope.” its Women in Prison Committee, a wide va- aloud from, and, participate (if they chose) riety of innovative programs to improve in- in discussions led by distinguished profes- District 13 equitable and counterproductive treatment sors of their own work or assigned read- Alaska Chief Justice Dana Fabe’s superb of incarcerated women and their families. ings. Spring Session assignments have in- Model Program, intended for use across the Below are just a few brief descriptions of cluded Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, a play country, entitled the “Success Inside and recent initiatives launched in NAWJ Dis- by August Wilson, Antigone by Sophocles, Out Conference”. This holistic program tricts. and Under African Skies, edited by Charles was designed to provide mentorship and Larson. The icing on the cake was the visit support by women judges and profession- District 2 by Harvard University Professor Helen als for women in prison who are within one Under the Leadership of Judge Be3tty Wil- Vendler, who discussed the poetry of Eliz- year of release, to provide women prisoners liams, NAWJ has for the second year writ- abeth Bishop. We have been honored by with information about resources available ten all New York State Legislators and the the active participation in BC of scholars to them upon re-entry, and to allow women Governor urging their support for legisla- including Southwestern University School judges and other women professionals the tion which would amend New York’s Cor- of Law Professor Myrna Raeder, and area opportunity to participate in a program rection Law to permit the Department of professors Diane Daniel, Deborah Payne within the prison, observe the prison en- Correctional Services to grant merit time Fisk, Ellarwee Gadsden, Dennis Kaplan, vironment, and become acquainted with eligibility and increased merit time allow- Charles Larson, Ailish Hopper Meisner, correction offi cials. The culmination of a ances to inmates who have defended them- Joan Naake, Denise Orenstein, Carol Pip- year of planning in collaboration with nu- selves against their abusers or have com- pen, Barbara Sherr Roswell, Roberta Ru- merous community organizations and busi- mitted crimes as a result of the abuse they benstein, and Pamela Sheff. nesses, the Program featured sessions and have suffered; At one recent session, the readings workshops including “Celebrating Your brought tears, gasps and applause from all Strengths”, “Interactive Communication”, District 4 those present. As described by Chief Judge “Dress for Success”, “Family Care: Walk Judge Theresa Nolan (Prince George’s Murray, “One woman, [for example], re- the CINA Line”, “Continuing Your Educa- County MD) and Judge Brenda Murray membered and described with beautiful tion”, “Healthy Relationships”, “Exploring (Chief ALJ Securities and Exchange Com- simplicity her experience as a youngster Life’s Necessities”, “Housing, Transporta- mission) have tremendously augmented opening her brother’s bedroom to fi nd tion & Food”, “Fitness & Strength Train- a remarkable Book Club Program (BC), a tiger lying on his bed. The writer de- ing”, “Parenting Issues”, “Family Law which attempts to make a difference by in- scribed the tiger’s coloring, especially his Self-Help Center”, “Getting Involved in the spiring women serving extended sentences orange and black eyes, so vividly that we Arts”, “Personal Finances”, and “Mental at the Maryland Correctional Institution were all in shock. Over the course of the Health.” (detailed Planning & Implementa- for Women (MCIW) with bimonthly BC session, you could almost see the women tion Guide, on CD and hard copy available sessions consisting of one book discus- expand upon receiving the compliments of via our National Offi ce) We have photos sion and one writing class. Each person in the other women and the instructors. This on disc for Dana’s program, right?

NAWJ - Branching Out Event, was perfect - -about 120 students and 30 and representatives of the other branches April 24 panelists/participants, not including me, were on hand to speak to students one-on- by Hon. Fernande Duffl y Amy Nechtem, the WBA President and the one. It started at 5, and ended an hour three main speakers: Chief Justice Margaret over schedule, at 8 PM. No one I asked It was, I have to say, a HUGE success. H. Marshall, Attorney General Martha wanted any change to the format. WBA Standing room only, enormous enthusiasm Coakley, former Senator (and always a covered the cost of programs and name tags from the law students and newly admitted major supporter of the judiciary) Patricia (color coded to indicate which branch each lawyers, all of whom were thrilled to be McGovern, who is now General Counsel, panel was in), provided additional staffi ng there, to have this opportunity -- and all Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. (registration, the effective email invitation); expressed the hope we would do it again. These three amazing women are excellent Jeff arranged for online registration, a law The older lawyers we let register towards speakers and gave brief, and inspirational clerk here assembled that, answered all the end (we charged them $20) said it talks. An army of law clerks then ushered the phone calls, took in any money (free for law was so helpful at a time when they had students to three courtrooms in the Adams students, $10 for newly admitted lawyers no other networking opportunities; new Courthouse, where a panel consisting of 1-2 yrs out, $20 all others); I think we have lawyers who did not go to school here said 5 women representing the three branches $200+ from that source, another $200 from they were grateful for this chance to meet talked informally about the different paths WBA; food cost was $610 plus tip. other lawyers in the area. We could do this they took to get where they got. The annually, alternating the target audience so evening ended with a 45 minute reception Judge Duffl y sits on the Massachussets that we focus on law students one year, and and networking opportunity where the Appeals Court. She is NAWJ President- attorneys 2-5 years out the next. The size panelists and additional NAWJ members Elect.

COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 19 PROGRAMMING

NAWJ Honors Women of Three Courthouse, was cosponsored by the Mas- Scholarship to Merritt A. Dattel, a third- Branches of Government; sachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators. year law student at Suffolk University Law Presents Equal Access to Justice In her opening remarks, Appeals Court School (see letter below). Ms. Dattel was Justice Fernande R. V. Duffl y, NAWJ Pres- selected for the $1000 scholarship because Scholarship ident-Elect, said, “Judicial independence of her commitment to public service. An is a cornerstone of our constitutional ideal. active member of the Suffolk Public In- Nearly 100 people attended the annual But independence does not mean that we terest Law group, she raised over $32,000 reception of the National Association of must be isolated from our community or for public service fellowships as the 2006 Women Judges (NAWJ) to recognize wom- from our partners in democracy, the execu- auction coordinator. Ms. Dattel, a native of en in government who were newly appoint- tive and legislative branches. I believe that Greenville, Mississippi, plans to assist dis- ed, elected, or elevated. The event, which if we are isolated—if we do not have oppor- abled people in Massachusetts in accessing was held on January 31 in the John Adams tunities to learn about each other and from health care, education rights, and employ- each other, to develop ment and government benefi ts. mutual respect through Established in 1979, NAWJ provides the open exchange of judicial education on cutting edge issues, information—mistrust serves as an impetus for the implementa- and misunderstanding tion of gender bias task forces in Federal will be given room to and State courts, and develops initiatives grow, undermining our that seek to increase the number of women

Left to right: Justice Duffly; Suffolk Law School Professor and Scholarship Committee Member very independence.” and minorities on the bench and promote Julie Baker; Suffolk Law School Dean of Students and Scholarship Committee Member Laura NAWJ awarded its equal access to justice for historically vul- Ferrari, NAWJ Scholarship Recipient Merritt Dattel; David McGowan, guest; and Suffolk Law School Associate Dean and Scholarship Committee Member Marc Perlin Equal Access to Justice nerable populations.

Thank You NAWJ! From Equal Access to Justice Scholarship Recipient Merritt A. Dattel, a third-year law student at Suffolk University Law School, Boston, MA.

20 COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 DISTRICT NEWS Outreach at American University, NY Chapter Installs New Officers, and More...

DISTRICT 2 Bernice D. Siegal DISTRICT DIRECTORS Leslie E. Stein Installation of NY Chapter Offi cers Marsha L. Steinhardt District Director, 1 Shirley Troutman Hon. Amy L. Nechtem January 27, 2007, 10:45 a.m. Mary M. Werner Marriott Marquis Hotel Betty J. Williams District Director, 2 1535 Broadway, NY, NY Hon. E. Jeannette Ogden Odets Room, 4th Floor *** District Director, 3 President Hon. Sue Pai Yang La Tia W. Martin District Director, 4 First Vice-President Hon. Joan V. Churchill Barbara Howe District Director, 5 Vice Presidents Hon. Diana S. Eagon Sherry Klein Heitler Renee Forgenski Minarik District Director, 6 Barbara I. Panepinto Hon. Phyllis M. Keaty Sheri S. Roman District Director, 7 Secretary Hon. Shelia R. Johnson Jeanette E. Ogden Second Annual Regional Conference held in Albany, New York District Director, 8 Treasurer Hon. Jane Spencer Craney Laura L. Jacobson A successful and well attended conference was held on April 26-27 2007 in the Capital District Director, 9 Board of Directors City of Albany. Women jurists were Hon. Ellen Levy Siwak Loren Baily-Schiffman represented from many areas of the State Cherly E. Chambers of New York. An extremely informative District Director, 10 Carolyn E. Demarest panel of Immigration Law experts including Hon. Renee L. Worke Carol R. Edmead Immigration Judge Theresa Holmes- Carol Feinman Simmons and New York Law School District Director, 11 Phyllis Orlikoff Flug Professors Linda Curcio and Lenni Benson Hon. Elisabeth Ashlea Earle Sandra A.Forster presented an exiting interactive program. Arlene H. Hahn This forum was thought provoking and District Director, 12 Judith Ann Hard provided practical information to be used Hon. Eileen S. Willett Marcia P. Hirsch by judges presiding over family, criminal Angela G. Iannacci and matrimonial cases. District Director, 13 Debra A. James Hon. Barbara A. Madsen Linda S. Jamieson DISTRICT 3 Marcy L. Kahn District Director, 14 Deborah Kaplan District 3 Women Judges are busy Hon. Donna Crandall Barbara R. Kapnick making plans for a very productive year. Sarah L. Krauss Our offi cers are as follows: Judith A. Lee District 3 Offi cers: Judge Sue Pai Yang Sue B. Levy - District 3 Director; Judge Isabel Stark Marion R. McNulty - Program Chair; Judge Siobhan Teare Sandra K. Pardes - Secretary, Judge Karimu Hill-Harvey - Jane A. Restani Treasurer Patricia P. Satterfi eld District 3 State Chairs: Delaware Chair: Denise L. Sher Judge Jan Jurden; New Jersey Co-Chairs:

COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 21 DISTRICT NEWS

Judge Sandra Robinson and Judge Michelle programs and tours for the international Madison House, which is now part of the Hollar-Gregory; Pennsylvania Chair: Judge judges in the Philadelphia area law schools, Courthouse complex. (See the separate Rochelle Friedman bar associations and courts. So far, judges article re the reception.) In December 2006, New Jersey from Bosnia, Israel, Korea, Nepal, North On March 6, 2007 the Maryland judges held their holiday party and a Ireland, Taiwan, and Ukraine have shown Chapter held its 13th Annual Joint Dinner toy drive at the NJ Historical Society in interest in coming. Meeting with the Women Legislators Newark. The New Jersey Women Lawyers of Maryland. Hon. Irma Raker, of the Association and men judges were also DISTRICT 4 Maryland Court of Appeals both chaired invited. Pennsylvania Women Judges held and hosted this event. a meeting earlier this year. They will be In light of the fact that a large portion District 4 held a terrifi c weekend selecting a Pennsylvania law school student of the District 4 membership is made up mini-conference at the Chesapeake Hyatt to receive the annual NAWJ scholarship. of administrative and military judges, resort hotel on the weekend of March Several educational plans are underway and judges serving on specialized courts, 16 – 18, 2007. Hon. Marcella Holland, for 2007. NJ Superior Court Judge we are particularly proud of the fact that Administrative Judge, Circuit Court Michelle Hollar-Gregory is spear-heading the NAWJ Board, at its 2007 Mid Year for Baltimore City, had the idea for the a Genome Justice Program for judges Meeting, adopted as an offi cial NAWJ conference, and made all the arrangements. and attorneys. Federal Bankruptcy Judge Project the project proposal we submitted on We created the Lady Justice Award for Rosemary Gambardella has volunteered to Administrative, Military and Specialized the longest serving woman judge on each organize an ICLE program on the recent Courts, in conjunction with the NAWJ of the courts of highest jurisdiction in the changes in the Bankruptcy Law using the Administrative Judges Committee. The District. Hon. Robert Bell, Chief Judge of booklet developed by NAWJ. project, which is designed to familiarize the Maryland Court of Appeals (Maryland’s District 3 members have raised funds the general judiciary, students and the Highest Court) hosted and spoke at the to invite about a dozen international public, with the diverse and complex work reception on Friday evening, at which we judges we met last May at the 8th Biennial of the administrative judiciary, as well as presented the award to Hon. Irma Raker. Conference of the International Association the military court system, and specialized Saturday we held a District 4 business of Women Judges in Sydney, Australia to courts, is now available for use throughout meeting, and then were treated to a panel New Jersey and Delaware in November the country. on Judicial Independence, at which Hon. 2007. We plan to host the judges in a We are also very proud that our member, M. Brooke Murdock, Judge, Baltimore people-to-people program where they will Hon. Leslie Alden, Judge, Circuit Court for City Circuit Court shared her story re be hosted in homes of our members and Fairfax County, VA is the President-Elect diffi culties she faced after a decision community leaders. We are also working of the International Association of Women she rendered on the subject of same sex with the NJ Supreme Court Committee on Judges. marriage and the Maryland constitution. Women in the Courts to set up some panel District 4 has had a busy winter season, Judge Raker gave an historical overview of discussions in the area law schools and and has plans for a number of upcoming the topic. Bert Brandenburg of the Justice ICLE programs for attorneys. events. On February 21, 2007, District 4 at Stake Campaign spoke of current threats In conjunction with this program, co-sponsored a Judicial Reception with the to judicial independence throughout the Judge Sue Pai Yang of NJ was appointed Women’s Bar Association of Washington United States, which are being monitored Chair of the International Committee DC in the magnifi cent Courtroom of the by his organization. After the meetings, of the NAWJ National Convention, and U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal members had a chance to socialize, net Judge Jan Jurden of DE was appointed Circuit. Judge. Pauline Newman, of work, and check out the facilities at the Vice Chair. After hosting the judges in the Court hosted the event, along with hotel. our respective states, we will then host Chief Judge Paul Michel. We heard an On March 20, 2007 Hon. Eric them at the NAWJ National Convention interesting panel discussion on judicial Washington, Chief Judge of the DC Court of in Philadelphia, PA from November 7 to independence, moderated by the Hon. Appeals (the highest Court for Washington 11, 2007. Districts 1 and 4 are also each Delissa Ridgeway of the U.S. Court of DC) participated in the presentation of raising funds to host an international judge International Trade, former President of the District 4 Lady Justice Award to his to the National Convention. More Districts the WBA. Dean Frederick M. Lawrence, colleague Hon. Vanessa Ruiz, immediate are invited to sponsor an international George Washington University Law past president of NAWJ. judge at our National Convention. If School provided an historical, academic A District 4 mini-conference is being you are interested in contributing in any perspective. Hon. Leonie M. Brinkema, planned for the weekend of May 19-20 in capacity, please contact either Judge Yang Judge, U.S. District Court for the Eastern Richmond, Virginia. Federal Magistrate at [email protected] (phone: 973- District of Virginia, provided a pragmatic Judge Hannah Lauck is coordinating what 648-2316) or Judge Jurden at jan.jurden@ perspective, and attorney John Nields promises to be another spectacular District state.de.us (phone: 302-255-0665). provided the perspective of an advocate 4 event. Lunch with the Hon. Anne Holton Volunteers are still needed including but for judicial independence. After the panel First Lady of Virginia, a panel discussion not limited to sharing hotel rooms or homes discussion, we gathered for refreshments in with 4 judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals with the international judges and arranging the elegantly restored rooms of the Dolley for the 4th Circuit, tours of the newly

22 COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 renovated State House, and the Supreme for late April or early May. Hon. Janet J. Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court, a gala reception, and a panel Mahon and Hon. Mary Masulla, Judges of Court, VA discussion with a prosecutor and defender at the DC Offi ce of Administrative Hearings Immediate Past President: Patrice Lewis, the Moussaoui trial are all on the schedule. are coordinating the plans, along with Hon. Judge, District Court of MD, Prince Hon. Karen J. Williams, designated to Judidth Macaluso, Judge, DC Superior Georges County become, next July, the fi rst woman Chief Court, who has graciously offered the use Maryland Chapter Judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the of her Court Room for the program. th President: Cathy Serrette, Judge, Circuit 4 Circuit, Hon. Diana Motz, Hon. Roger Court, Prince Georges County, MD Gregory, and Hon. Allyson Duncan have Moot Courts Vice President: Beverly Nash, Judge, all agreed to participate. The panel will District 4 President/District Director Hon. Offi ce of Administrative Hearings, be moderated by Hon. Norma L. Shapiro, Joan Churchill, Judge, U.S. Immigration Washington, DC Judge. U.S. District Court, Eastern District Court, retired, served on 2 moot courts at Secretary: Vicki Ballou-Watts, Judge, of Pennsylvania. American University Washington College Circuit Court for Baltimore County, MD A Gala reception is being organized of Law, at the invitation of Law Student Treasurer: Zakia Mahasa, Master, Circuit by Landmark member Kelly Faglioni member Jennifer Slagle, of the Moot Court Court for Batimore City, Juv. Justice of the fi rm of Hunton and Williams, for Executive Board. On January 26, 2007 Center, MD Maymont, an elegant park. A special tour Judge Churchill served on a panel judging Virginia Chapter, Virginia Association of of the just completed, beautifully renovated the fi nal round of the national competition Women Judges State House has been arranged by Mayor for fi rst year law students. On April 1, President: Ann Hunter Simpson, Judge, (and former Governor) Douglas Wilder. 2007, she judged the fi nal round of the Spotsylvania Circuit Court, VA Justice Elizabeth Lacy will host a tour of the national high school competition. Vice President Alotha Willis, Judge, Supreme Court. We plan to present Justice Juvenile & Domestic Relations Cort, Lacy with her Lady Justice Award, during Outreach Portsmouth, VA the weekend, as she was unable to attend On March 5, 2007, District 4’s Law Secretary: Colleen Killilea, Judge, our March mini – conference. We shall School Outreach Committee, chaired by Williamsburg General District Court, VA also be presenting the Lady Justice Award Hon. Jean Baron, Judge, District Court of Treasurer: Judith Kline, Juvenile & to Judge Karen Williams, longest serving Maryland, Prince George’s County, put on Domestic Relations District Court, Newport News, VA woman on the U.S. Court of Appeals for its 3rd annual panel at American University. Immediate Past President: Becky Moore, the 4th Circuit. An NAWJ scholarship This was organized by Student Member Judge, Alexandria General District Court, will be awarded to a law student at the Cristina Silva. The topic this year was From VA University of Richmond Law School. Hon. Clerking for a Judge to Becoming One. The Eileen Olds, Judge, Juvenile & Domestic panel included Hon. Chuck Adkins-Blanch, DISTRICT 5 Relations Court, Chesapeake, VA, will be a former Law Clerk to the Immigration honored for becoming President-Elect of Court, who is now an Immigration Judge District 5 is hosting a Regional the American Judges Association. himself, as well as Judge Baron, Judge Conference in South Beach , Florida April Churchill, and retired administrative judges 27 to 29 at the Savoy Hotel. This conference Color of Justice Hon. Ruth Berg, Judge, Armed Services is being held in conjunction with District 6. Fairfax Virginia The 4th annual Board of Contract Appeals, retired, and Judge Diana S. Eagon (Retired) and Judge Mary Hotard Becnel are the co-chairs of District 4 Color of Justice Program, in Hon. Arlene Pacht , Judge, National Labor the conference. The cost is fantastic, only Fairfax Virginia, was held on February Relations Board, retired, and fi rst president $75 for members. 24, 2007, in conjunction with the public of the International Association of Women Attorney Tom Sadaka a lecturer with the schools of Fairfax County, VA. The event Judges. NCSC will preside over a panel discussion was chaired by Hon. Teena Grodner, Judge, On April 23, 2007 District 4 will on April 27 covering 4th Amendment Fairfax County Juvenile and Domestic co-sponsor an “Ice-breaker” reception issues in this age of technology. He will Relations Court, and a past president of the for students at this year’s Military Judges be joined by Judge Patricia A. Riley. On NAWJ Virginia Chapter. Training Institute. This event was the idea Saturday morning Districts 5 and 6 will Newport News, Virginia The 2d of Hon. Col. Denise Vowell, former Chief have a District meetings. These will be annual District 4 Color of Justice Program Trial Judge of the U.S. Army, and present followed by a panel which will explore in Newport News Virginia is scheduled Special Master at the U.S. Court of Federal Disaster Issues. Judge Madeline Landrieu from Louisiana who will present discuss for April 28, 2007. The program is being Claims, who has made the arrangements, what judges have lerned about disasters jointly sponsored by NAWJ, the Greater and will represent District 4 at the event. and how we should prepare for them in the Peninsula Women’sBar Association and the future. She will be joined by Judge Alfonso Newport News Public Schools. This event Current Offi cers from Mississippi who will talk about how is being chaired by Hon. Judith A. Kline, District 4 disasters affect kids and Judge Jennifer Judge, Juvenile and Domestic Relations President/District Director: Joan Churchill, Bailey from Florida. Judge Bailey’s District Court for Newport News. Immigration Judge, retired expertise is dealing with pandemics. The District of Columbia The DC Color Vice President: Anna Blackburne-Rigsby, conference addendees will be provided Judge, DC Court of Appeals of Justice Program Committee is working with practical tips to deal with matters , as Treasurer: Julia Weatherly, Judge, Circuit with the DC Public Schools to arrange a 2d well as examples from past experiences to Court, Prince Georges County, MD help us professionally and personally when annual District 4 Color of Justice Program Secretary: Gayl B. Carr, Judge, Fairfax

COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 23 DISTRICT NEWS

disasters happen. Our noon luncheon will Chief Justice in February 2006. Prior to that that is being explored. honor the current and past Chief Justices time she had served as an associate Justice Judge Nina Radakovich was from our two districts. The Chief Justices from 1993 to 2006 and as a Court of appointed from Georgia. Judge Yvonne from District 5 are: from FL, former Chief Appeals Judge from l985 to l992. Her legal Mims Evans was appointed from North Justice Barbara Pariente; from GA, Chief career started as an attorney in l969. She Carolina and Chief Justice Jean Toal Justice Leah Ward Sears; from NC Chief brings a wealth of judicial experience to was asked to provide this information Justice Sarah Parker ; and from S.C. Chief her job. Justice Patricia Timmons-Goodson from South Carolina. Jeff now has this Justice Jean H. Toal. These women are was also appointed to the Supreme Court information from each of these states. amazing and what role models for our young in February 2006. She too had previously In addition to providing the names women. They will have an opportunity to served on the Court of Appeals. Her term of the women judges from each state share with us issues they perceive relevant was from 1997 to 2006. Prior to that time the contact judge was asked to provide to the judiciary today. The District 5 Access she had been a District Court Judgeand information for the Counterbalance . to Justice Scholarship will be awarded at prior to that an attorney. She brings the The information in the Counterbalance this luncheon. The conference will end on unique experience of a trial court judge to from District 5 is a result of their efforts. Sunday with a program by Judge Cindy her new job. District 5 has not had district meeting Lederman. She will lead a workshop on Justice Robin Hudson is the most other than at the national meeting in part Healing Babies and Toddlers in the Court recently appointed woman Justice on because of the distances and number of demonstrating how courts can use science the Supreme Court assuming offi ce in states involved. The Judges of the District to improve life chances of infants and January of 2007. As did her collegues, she are happy to have this Regional Meeting toddlers in foster care. also served on the Court of Appealsfrom to get together and explore other means of This promises to be a conference in 2000 to 2007. In 2000 she was the fi rst promoting the mission of NAWJ. District keeping with the tradition of NAWJ of NC woman elected to the Apppeals Court 5 wishes to thank President Judge Brenda providing excellent cutting edge judicial without being appointed fi rst. Prior to that Loftin for her vision in requesting this programing for our professional growth time she had extensive experence as an Regional meeting and Judge Maggie Robb , mentoring for our fellow judges, and an attorney and brings that knowledge with for her efforts in this regard. We are hopeful opportunities for sharing ideas, meeting her to this important job. Congratulations that this Regional Conference will generate new friends and greeting the old. Hope to to the people of NC for their good fortune interest in NAWJ and that we will be able see you there. in having these remarkable women leading to add to our numbers from District 5. Other news from our District was their supreme court. reported by judges from the various states. South Carolina Chief Justice Tean Toal DISTRICT 8 Judge Debra K Behnke reports that reports that there are 26 women judges 53 women were elected or re-elected in in the state of Sourt Carolina with two NAWJ’s signature program, the Color Florida during the November elections. additional women judges joining them this of Justice, is a popular program in District That list has been forwarded to Jeff. summer as family court judges. 8. On November 1, 2006 the program Judge Nina M. Radakovich provided I invite any judge in our district to was presented by the Indianapolis Bar the great news about Georgia being the fi rst submit to me any information you would Association at the Indiana University— state to have an African-American woman like included in the next Counterbalance as Chief Justice of the Georgia Supreme addressed to [email protected]. Indianapolis Law School. A $1,000.00 Court. Chief Justice Leah Ward Sears was (Don’t be confused by the e-mail address. NAWJ Equal Access to Justice Scholarship sworn in as Chief Justice and Carol W. It’s a long story.) Hope to see you in South was presented to Kiamesha-Sylvia Colom, Hunstein was sworn in as presiding Justice Beach for the Regional Conference. who has recently joined NAWJ as a Student at a ceremony where U.S. Supreme Court In conjunction with putting on the Member. We anticipate the Indianapolis Justice Clarence Thomas made remarks and Regional Conference an effort has been Bar Association will present this program Former Mayor Andrew Young administered made to identify the women state court again in the fall of 2007 at a public high the oath to the Chief Justice. Goals for judges in the District. NAWJ has a list of school. the new Chief Justice include working on the Federal Judges. A person was selected The Kentucky Human Rights Georgia’s indigent defense system, helping from each state in the District to forward Commission, headed by NAWJ Membership Georgia families prosper and succeed, and the names and addresses of the women Director Linda Strite Murnane who is upholding the independence and integrity judges of that state and to provide to the of the judicial branch of government. District Director news relating to women currently assigned to judicial duties in the Presiding Justice Hunstein noted in her judges for inclusion in the District Report war crimes trials at The Hague, is planning remarks the changing role of women in the and the Counterbalance. to present the Color of Justice at Kentucky legal profession, stating “while this Judge Debra K Behnke was appointed State University, a historically African- swearing-in is an historic event for this state from Florida. She submitted to Jeff the American college, in the fall of 2007. We and this country, for me it is a reaffi rmation names and addresses of the 53 women anticipate that a NAWJ Access to Justice of my faith in the rule of law and the role of elected or re-elected in Florida. The Florida Scholarship will be presented to a student/ the legal system in ensuring justice for all” State Court Administrator’s offi ce has attendee during the program. Judge Yvonne Mims Evans is excited agreed to forward notice of our conference A Chicago Regional Conference is to report that 2007 marks the fi rst year that to the women judges of the state, but being planned for September 28 through North Carolina has a women chief Justice because of privacy issues would not submit 30, 2007. Thompson/West has provided and two associate justices on its Supreme them to us directly. It is possible that a Court. Chief Justice Sarah Parker became sitting judge would be able to get them and $2,500.00 to help fund this conference. Lexis/Nexus has expressed interest 24 COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 in funding the conference also. The on the bench. Moria was with NAWJ since Color of Justice Program with Seattle conference agenda is being planned around its inception and served as its fi rst treasurer. University School of Law. This will be the issues of personal safety for Judges and Moria, a true trailblazer, was the fi rst woman the second program with students from the Judicial Independence. NAWJ’s Queen judge in Dane County, having defeated the Chief Leschi Native American School. of Hospitality, District 8 Director Judge incumbent in the only successful recall in On June 21-23, 2007, Alaska will be Jane Spencer Craney, and the Princess of Wisconsin’s history. having its fi fth Color of Justice program. Hospitality, former District 8 Director and *** NAWJ members were active in this program retired Magistrate Christine Miller, are Maxine Aldridge designed to expose high school students to planning to come out of retirement to put White, presiding mock trials, mini-law-school classes, and on a wonderful Hospitality Evening during judge in the the judiciary. The committee working the conference. Milwaukee on this program is coordinating with the County Circuit University of Alaska and three Washington DISTRICT 9 Court Family State law schools—the University of Division and Washington, Seattle University, and District 9 remains committed to the a Milwaukee Gonzaga University Schools of Law. Each Color of Justice program. Wisconsin is resident, received school will be sponsoring interactive mini- currently working with Marquette Law the Alumni law-school courses, including “Street Law” School to host a Color of Justice program Service to the by the University of Washington. culminating in the presentation of a student Community Award as part of Marquette Justice Barbara Madsen has extended an scholarship award. Missouri will host University’s 2007 Alumni National Awards invitation to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg a Color of Justice Program this spring in Dinner on April 28. It is one of six all- to include time, during her travel to the St. Louis. The program will be held with university awards given annually. American Judges Association Conference participants from Ladue High School. in September, to join NAWJ, District 13 Each participant will receive a portfolio DISTRICT 13 members and Washington State attorneys from the St. Louis County Bar Association and judges in an event celebrating women and a NAWJ Color of Justice Cap. On May 16, 2007, and the Washington in leadership. NAWJ members help increase State Gender and Justice Commission will Efforts are underway to increase opportunities for women in the delivery co-sponsor a half-day version of the NAWJ membership in District 13. of Justice. Iowa has teamed up with the Women’s Bar Association to talk about opportunities for women counsel to serve as mediators, and to take leadership roles in The National Association of Women Judges improving delivery of justice, and address Presents the backlog of cases in trial and appellate Save courts. U.S. Magistrate Judge Celeste F. the The First-Ever Bremer participated in a two week program teaching mediators for a court-annexed Date!NAWJ Southwest Regional Conference program who will take cases from the trial courts of Karnataka in Bangalore, India. Keynote Speaker: Justice (Retd) Sandra Day O’Connor Women Judges and Women Legislators Guest Speaker: Hon. Sharon Majors-Lewis fi nd common ground. Iowa Women Judges hosted their annual meeting with Women Legislators on February 13, 2007 in Des PLENARY SESSIONS Moines, Iowa. Missouri Women Judges th Impact on Judicial Diversity: sponsored the 10 annual luncheon in Systems of Judicial Selection, Retention & Evaluation honor of Missouri Women Legislators on Relationship Between Judicial Diversity and Judicial Independence March 6, 2007 at the Missouri Supreme Court Building. Over 30 women judges August 24-26, 2007 and over 25 women legislators from San Diego, California Missouri attended. Both groups realize the importance of working together to combat Keep an eye out for your invitation! the animosity that the media so frequently reports. On April 26, 2007 the St. Louis We would like to thank the supporters! Daily Record will honor U.S. Senator (As of June 25, 2007) Claire McCaskill, Husch & Eppenberger Baker & McKenzie LLP * California Western School CEO Attorney Carrie Hermeling, and Legal Services Attorney Kayla Vaughan at the of Law * Duckor Spradling Metzger & Wynne * Fish & Ninth Annual Women’s Justice Awards. Richardson P.C. * Kirby Noonan Lance & Hoge LLP * District 9 bids a fond farewell to Moria QUALCOMM * Wilson Petty Kosmo & Turner LLP Krueger who is retiring after over 29 years

COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 25 DISTRICT NEWS

NAWJ Board Member Hon. Peace. “I look forward to [her] insight speaks on issues of judicial independence, Vanessa Ruiz Join Carnegie and guidance as we enter the Endowment’s including civil society initiatives to Endowment for International challenging next phase.” improve and strengthen the judiciary and “I am delighted to join the Peace Board of Trustees the importance of citizen understanding distinguished Board of Trustees of the of the judiciary and judicial participation Carnegie Endowment at this exciting in citizen education in a democratic WASHINGTON, time, when the Endowment is undertaking society. She has addressed the delegates D.C.—Making efforts to enhance the international impact to the Organization of American States the announcement, of its excellent work on the crucial and and various conferences in Bogatá, Rio de James C. Gaither, interrelated issues of peace, economic Janeiro, Brasilia, Sao Paulo and Lima. Chairman of development, human rights and the rule of Judge Ruiz was born in San Juan, the Board, said: law,” Judge Ruiz said. Puerto Rico. She is a 1975 graduate of “I am delighted Judge Vanessa Ruiz was appointed the Georgetown University Law Center to welcome . . . to the District Court of Appeals in 1994 and received her bachelor’s degree in Judge Ruiz to the by President Clinton after serving as philosophy in philosophy. Carnegie Board.” Corporation Counsel (now the Attorney The Carnegie Endowment for “Vanessa Ruiz General) for the District of Columbia. International Peace is a private, nonprofi t brings with her a deep intellect and vast Judge Ruiz chairs the D.C. Courts’ organization dedicated to advancing experience as lawyer, scholar and judge. Advisory Committee on Judicial Conduct cooperation between nations and promoting Both will add considerably to the breadth and is a member of the District of Columbia active international engagement by the of the Carnegie Board.” Access to Justice Commission. In 2001, United States. Founded in 1910, its work “The addition of . . . Judge Ruiz to the she was named “Judge of the Year” by is nonpartisan and dedicated to achieving Endowment’s Board of Trustees further the Hispanic National Bar Association practical results. strengthens an already strong body as and is the Immediate Past President of the we embark on the implementation of our National Association of Women Judges and For more information about the NEW VISION, the Carnegie Endowment’s serves on the Board of Managerial Trustees Carnegie Endowment, please visit: www. transformation into the fi rst multinational of the International Association of Women carnegieendowment.org. - and ultimately global - think tank,” said Judges. Jessica T. Mathews, President of the The co-author of Europe Without Press contact: Trent Perrotto at (202) Carnegie Endowment for International Frontiers: A Lawyers Guide, Judge Ruiz 939-2372 or [email protected].

Long-Time one of only two community college stu- we just want to give in -- when the struggle, NAWJ Volunteer dents in Maryland named to the All-USA or the pressure to fulfi ll our obligations is Honored Third Team. too overwhelming,” she said. “During our Erin was selected to be the student time at Wor-Wic, we each probably reached Erin Twilley was speaker at the Wor-Wic Community Col- a point where we questioned our ability to recently selected from lege commencement exercises. Addressing accomplish our goals. Yet, here we are.” more than 1,500 nom- her fellow members of the Class of 2007, Erin Twilley is a general studies and inees to be named to Twilley focused on the importance of “nev- honors program graduate with a 4.0 grade the All-Maryland Academic First Team and er giving in.” point average and is the niece of NAWJ’s the All-USA Third Team. Twilley, 18, was “There are moments in our life when COO, Jeff Groton (and he is very proud).

NAWJ CONGRATULATES 2007 Ms. Christie Edwards Sandra Day O’Connor Thomas Jefferson School of Law Scholarship San Diego, CA

26 COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 MEMBER NEWS

OF NOTE Musharraf in March. Judge Murphy will professions. www.policewriter.com assume her duties as Chair at the annual “I am particularly honored that my Judge Sheila Murphy (Ret.) has been conference in Singapore, October 14-19, second book Yield is recognized favorably appointed Chair of the International 2007. by a group who know the criminal courts Bar Association’s Judge’s Forum. The well,” Law said. She is also the author of Judge’s Forum seeks to inform judges ACCOLADES non-fi ction Sex Appealed: Was the U.S. of enlightened judicial decisions and Supreme Court Fooled? A behind-the- projects around the world and seeks to Yield: A Judge’s Fir$t-Year Diary, scenes investigation of Lawrence v. Texas, upon the independence of the judiciary a non-fi ction book by NAWJ member a case assigned to her Houston court when For example, recently the International Janice Law, Houston, Texas, was awarded she was judge-elect. www.judgejanicelaw. Bar asked President of Pakistan General Honorable Mention in the 2007 writing com Pervez Musharraf, to reinstate of Chief competition sponsored by Public Safety She now sits as a visiting judge for Justice Ifi khar Mohammad Chaudry. The Writers, a national literary group of police, Texas judges who are ill, on vacation, etc. Chief Justice was suspendred by General sheriffs, fi refi ghters, EMS and other related

Call for Submissions–September 10, 2007

Please send submissions for Counterbalance via e-mail attachment to [email protected]. Please include “Counterbalance” in the subject line. Before submitting, please review the following guidelines:

1. You may attach either a Word or WordPerfect document, or include the text in the body of your e-mail. Submissions should be single-spaced in 10pt Times New Roman font and include a title, if necessary, and your preferred byline. 2. Please submit complete articles. If you have information from some other source (article, newsletter, Web site, etc.) that you want included, please place that information in your article rather than attaching it to your e-mail and making references to it. 3. If you have photos you would like to accompany your submission, please attach high-quality photo fi les (.JPG, .GIF, .BMP, etc.). Do not include them in the body of your article. Captions are optional and dependent on space limitations. 4. Copyright restrictions do apply even though we are a non-profi t organization. We cannot reproduce articles from newspapers or Web sites unless you own the rights or have been granted reprint permission. If you just want to include a summary from the source, please write and submit it as you would an article you had written yourself.

Welcome New NAWJ Members! October 2006 - May 2007

Ms. Jaime Bailey Hon. Michelle Gozansky Harrison Ms. Amy J. Mauser Ms. Alanna C. Rutherford Hon. Bernadette Bayne Ms. Susan Sara Henderson-Utis Hon. Cheryl A. McCally Hon. Helene Sacco Hon. Gina M. Benavides Hon. Mary Ellen Henry Hon. Amanda McClendon Hon. Jennifer Sargent Hon. Catherine M. Bennett Hon. Diane M. Henson Hon. Everna McCray Hon. Toko Serita Hon. Robert Benson Hon. Maria D. Hernandez Ms. Heather McDevitt Ms. Sharon Ann Shaffer Hon. Kimberly C. Bonner Hon. Elizabeth Hey Ms. Amanda M. McGovern Hon. Lisette Shirdan-Harris Hon. Lynn Bradshaw-Hull Hon. Geraldine S. Hines Hon. Frances A. McIntyre Hon. Joan E. Shkane Hon. Yvette Bryant Hon. Merita A. Hopkins Hon. Katherine A. Moloney Hon. Abbi Silver Hon. Colleen A. Cavanaugh Hon. Andrew D. Hurwitz Hon. Cindy Morris Hon. Ann Hunter Simpson Hon. Victoria M. Chavez Ms. Julia Huston Hon. Sonya A. Morris Hon. Donna S. Strom Ms. Annie Christ-Garcia Hon. Miriam Brown Hutchins Hon. Carmen T. Mullen Hon. Helen Francine Strong Ms. Kiamesha-Sylvia G. Colom Hon. S. Lark Ingram Ms. Margaret E. Murray Hon. Terry L. Thurbon Ms. Princess Cooper Hon. Vicky L. Ivory-Orem Ms. Laurie A. Novion Hon. Randa Trapp Hon. Pamela Crawford Hon. Samantha Jessner Hon. Karen M. Oakes Hon. Kay Tsenin Ms. Susan Creighton Hon. Janet Jordan Hon. Geraldine Page Hon. Martha Walters Hon. June Berry Darensburg Hon. Colleen K. Killilea Hon. Tina Page Hon. Kimberly Smith Ward Ms. Merritt A. Dattel Hon. Victoria Susan Kolakowski Ms. Erin Palmer Ms. Deah B. Warren Hon. Joan Davenport Hon. Ann Patricia Kolina Likens Hon. Nancy J. Paul Hon. Stephanie M. Wauters Ms. Leslie Davis Ms. Emily J. Lawrence Ms. Laura Pena Mr. Marshall S. Weaver Hon. Sarah L. Deneke Hon. Verna G. Leath Hon. Erika L. Pierson Hon. Pamela J. White Ms. Kelly M. Dermody Hon. Elizabeth K. Lee Hon. Rebecca Pilshaw Hon. Vanessa H. White Hon. Mary Lynn Dlabola Hon. Brenda Levinson Hon. Simone Polak Hon. Janet Whitney Ms. Nicole Erb Ms. Jamie A. Levitt Ms. Connie J. Postelli Hon. Alotha Carol Willis Hon. Joan N. Feeney Hon. Mary M. Lisi Hon. Marjorie A. Rasmussen Hon. Debra Wise Ms. Elizabeth Ferrell Ms. Nicki Locker Hon. Paul L. Reiber Hon. Elizabeth P. Wolfe Hon. Crystal A. Gaines Ms. Anna Loiselle Hon. Penny Brown Reynolds Ms. Robin E. Wosje Hon. Renee G. Goldfarb Hon. Margaret Mangan Hon. Cynthia M. Rufe Hon. Barbara G. Zambelli Ms. Joan M. Haratani Hon. Anne-Christine Massullo Ms. Naomi Rustomjee

COUNTERBALANCE Summer 2007 27 Register today for the NAWJ 29th Annual Conference! Details Inside

NAWJ Membership Application and Update Form

Please print clearly

 Check here if you are only updating your membership information and complete the appropriate fi elds below. Title:  Chief Justice  Chief Judge  Justice  Judge  Ms.  Mr.  Other nonjudicial ______Full Name: ______Court/Agency: ______Address: ______City/State/Zip: ______Country: ______Phone: ( ) _____-______Fax: ( ) _____-______E-Mail: ______

Does your position require admission to the practice of law?  Yes  No Please Check:  Federal  State  General Jurisdisction  Limited Jurisdisction  Administrative Subject Matter Jurisdiction ______Years on Bench ______Are you:  Elected?  Appointed?

Please select a membership type (Member dues and all contributions are tax deductible):  Life Member ...... $3,000*  Voting Member ...... $200 (First-time members pay $175)  Associate Member ...... $175  Retired Judge ...... $175**  Amicus Judicii ...... $175  Law Clerk Member ...... $50  Law Student Member ...... $25  Subscription to Counterbalance ...... $25***

Payment Type:  Visa  MC  AMEX  Check (payable to NAWJ) Card No: ______Exp. Date ___ /____ Signature: ______Join Online! *One-time only fee. May be made in 3 installments. **Retired judges with changed circumstances may pay an optional reduced membership fee of $100. www.nawj.org ***For law libraries and associations only. Mail application and payment to: National Association of Women Judges Membership Offi ce ATTN: Kathleen Moseley 300 Newport Avenue Williamsburg, VA 23185-4147 NAWJ 29th Annual Conference “We The People” November 7 - 11, 2007 Registration REGISTRATION INFORMATION NAWJ Member registration fee includes all educational sessions, receptions, meals, transportation to events listed in the program and use of the hospitality suite. Partner/guest registration fee includes all receptions, meals, transportation to events listed in the program and use of the hospitality suite.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE AND LATE REGISTRATION Registration forms postmarked after the registration deadline of October 1, 2007, must include a $50 late registration fee.

CANCELLATION POLICY If notice of cancellation is received after October 1, 2007, the registration fee, less a $50 processing fee, is refundable. Cancellations received within 3 days of the conference are refundable less a $50 processing fee plus the cost of any hotel meals or guest guarantee expense incurred by NAWJ.

LODGING Rooms at the historic Four Seasons Hotel, located in Centre City Philadelphia have been guaranteed at the single rate of $198.00 plus tax, single or $228.00 double occupancy. Upgrades are available. For reservations, call 1-215-963-1500 and state that you are with the NAWJ/Women Judges conference. Reservations must be made on or before October 8, 2007, to guarantee the conference rate (subject to availability).

REGISTRATION (You may register online at www.NAWJ.org.) Please print your name and title as you wish them to appear on your name badge. Name:______Title:______Address:______City:______State/Zip:______Phone:______Fax:______Email:______Name of Guest if Applicable:______I request a roommate if available? ______Require vegetarian meals? Self____ Guest____ Require specifi c aids or services? Audio___ Visual___ Mobile ___ Date of arrival: ______Date of Departure: ______

REGISTRATION FEES (Please add $50 to each category after October 1, 2007) NAWJ Member: $475 $______First Time Attendee: $450 (member only) $______Spouse/Guest: $450 (education sessions not included) $______Non-NAWJ Member: $495 $______Total: $______METHOD OF PAYMENT (Payment due at time of registration) Enclosed is a check payable to NAWJ for $______or Credit Card: MasterCard, Visa or AMEX Account Number:______Expiration:______Security Code (req): ______Billing Address (street, city, state, zip code) ______

Signature______

RETURN THIS REGISTRATION FORM WITH PAYMENT TO: National Association of Women Judges 1341 Connecticut Ave, NW, Suite 4.2 Washington, D.C. 20036 Fax: 202-393-0125 NAWJ 29th Annual Conference 2007 Silent Auction Donation Form

NAME OF DONOR ______ADDRESS ______CITY ______STATE______ZIP_____ TELEPHONE ______FAX______EMAIL______

DESCRIPTION OF DONATION ______(Include with form any promotional materials, brochures, photos, gift certifi cates, etc.)

RESTRICTIONS, IF ANY (i.e., expiration date, time limits, uncovered costs, blackout dates, etc. ______

ESTIMATED RETAIL VALUE $______

SOLICITOR’S NAME______

For more information, contact the Silent Auction Committee Co-Chairs:

Fran Shapiro, Esq., [email protected] Judge Sheila Woods-Skipper, [email protected], (215) 683-7065, fax (215) 683-7067.

Please send all donations to: Judge Sheila Woods-Skipper 1301 Filbert Street Suite 1216 Philadelphia, PA 19107

The National Association of Women Judges, Tax ID No. 55-1185005, is a tax-exempt charitable/educational organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Since its founding in 1979, NAWJ has acted to protect the equal rights of women, families, immigrants, and other vulnerable groups in the justice system.

ALL DONATIONS BECOME THE PROPERTY OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN JUDGES AND ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW.