State Courts in our Democracy: Preserving the Rule of Law
State courts stand at the center of our constitutional democracy—safeguarding individual rights, supporting transparent government, protecting electoral access, and serving as an essential counterbalance within our system of checks and balances. Yet across the country, public trust in the judiciary is facing unprecedented strain. Join us for an evening of timely conversation and insight as leading jurists, scholars, and advocates examine the evolving role of state courts and the future of the rule of law in America. Featuring remarks and moderated discussions with: Chief Justice Debra Stephens, Washington Supreme Court , Judge John Chun, U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington , Justice Bobbe Bridge (ret.), Washington Supreme Court , Judge Robert S. Lasnik, U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington , Scholars and civic leaders, The program will explore: What makes state courts distinct, and indispensable, in our constitutional structure , The growing erosion of…
Event interval: Single day event. Campus location: William H. Gates Hall (LAW). Accessibility Contact: lawconf@uw.edu. Event Types: Lectures/Seminars.
Wednesday, January 21, 2026, 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM.