Bench Press Symposium to feature discussion of judicial independence

Bench Press Symposium to feature discussion of judicial independenceOctober 04, 2005Jaclyn D. Grossojgrosso@law.syr.edu

As the urgent need for a national conversation on the independence of the judiciary comes to the forefront, Syracuse University’s College of Law, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, and S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications are sponsoring a symposium in Washington, D.C., to gather national experts and leaders of thought on this crucial issue. The Oct. 17 event, “BENCH PRESS: The Collision of Media, Politics, Public Pressure and an Independent Judiciary,” will be held in the JW Marriott Hotel on Pennsylvania Avenue. It will examine the process, debate and discussions surrounding the appointment of judges, while including a focus on Supreme Court nominations.

“SU is uniquely poised to present this symposium,” says Chancellor and President Nancy Cantor. “By juxtaposing our strengths in public policy, communications and law with the expertise of our guest panelists we are sure to make significant inroads of inquiry in this critically important area.”

In addition to discussions with more than 24 nationally recognized participants and expert panelists, the symposium will include a lunch featuring NPR Legal Affairs Correspondent Nina Totenberg as guest speaker. The lunch will be held from noon-1:45 p.m. Cost for the lunch is $50 in advance, $60 at the door. Seating is limited.

During the symposium, the results of a national survey, the Maxwell Poll, will be announced. The survey, conducted by the Maxwell School’s Campbell Public Affairs Institute, focuses on civic engagement and inequality. This year’s survey includes asection on the public’s perception of the judiciary.

Interested participants should R.S.V.P. and pre-register at http://jpm.syr.edu.Questions may be directed to benchpress@law.syr.edu or (315) 443-2524.