Athena Dickson, president of the Missouri Bar Association for 2025-2026, said on Apr. 6 that respect among government branches and an independent judiciary are essential to upholding the rule of law.
Dickson said the principle that government is guided by laws rather than individuals is not a partisan or optional idea, but a shared civic agreement. She addressed concerns following the decision not to hold Missouri’s State of the Judiciary on Jan. 28, saying this tradition has served as a moment for institutional respect and public discussion about justice and court challenges. “When that tradition is disrupted and the judiciary is publicly characterized as the ‘lesser’ branch of government, it raises serious concerns that transcend any single bill or political disagreement,” Dickson said.
She explained that Missouri’s Constitution does not recognize greater or lesser branches but establishes legislative, executive, and judicial branches as co-equal. “Our courts, led by the Supreme Court of Missouri, exist to interpret and apply the law impartially, safeguard individual rights, and ensure that the rule of law prevails,” she said.
Dickson called on lawyers to uphold their role as officers of the court: “We are sworn not merely to advocate for clients, but to uphold the Constitution and the legal system itself.” She encouraged continued support for an independent judiciary through engagement in processes such as judicial performance reviews. According to Dickson: “By participating in the judicial performance review process, you are not only serving your profession, but also reinforcing foundational principles of justice and helping maintain Missourians’ faith in our system of government.”
The Missouri Bar serves all practicing attorneys across Missouri according to its official website. The association provides legal information resources aimed at supporting both professionals and communities statewide according to its official website. It operates under a Board of Governors composed of elected attorneys representing various districts according to its official website.
Founded in 1944 by order of the Supreme Court of Missouri with headquarters in Jefferson City according to its official website, The Missouri Bar offers continuing education opportunities along with public tools like lawyer directories while promoting fair legal practices throughout Missouri.