Checks & Balances is a newsletter of the Society for the Rule of Law Institute.
Our Mission
The Society for the Rule of Law Institute exists to protect and advance the Constitution and the Rule of Law against rising threats posed by illiberal forces in our society, regardless of political party or partisan affiliation.
We believe that constitutional government depends upon enduring principles: the separation of powers, an independent judiciary, freedom of speech and the press, equal justice under law, due process, and respect for the limits of governmental authority. These bipartisan principals are the foundation of a free society.
At a time when Americans increasingly question the strength and durability of our institutions, the Institute works to defend the constitutional framework that safeguards individual liberty and democratic self-government. We believe that preserving the Rule of Law requires principled leadership, informed public engagement, and a willingness to defend constitutional norms wherever they are threatened.
What We Do
The Society for the Rule of Law Institute advances its mission through education, advocacy, research, and public engagement.
Through our Checks & Balances publication and podcasts we provide expert commentary and analysis on the most pressing legal and constitutional issues facing the nation today. We bring together leading lawyers, judges, scholars, policymakers, and citizens to discuss challenges to the Rule of Law and potential solutions.
The Institute also participates in significant litigation through amicus curiae briefs and other advocacy efforts, offering principled legal perspectives in cases involving constitutional structure, individual rights, executive power, due process, judicial independence, and related Rule-of-Law concerns.
Our Principles
We believe:
The Constitution remains the foundation of American self-government.
The rule of law must apply equally to all persons and institutions.
Individual rights and liberties deserve vigorous protection.
Government power must remain subject to meaningful constitutional limits.
Free speech, a free press, and open debate are essential to a healthy republic.
Independent courts are indispensable to the preservation of liberty.
Civic disagreement must be conducted through reason, evidence, and respect for democratic institutions.
Get Involved
The challenges facing the Rule of Law cannot be met by any one institution alone. They require a broad coalition of lawyers, law students, scholars, policymakers, and engaged citizens committed to constitutional governance.
To follow our work, subscribe to Checks & Balances, attend one of our events, or support the Institute’s mission.
For media inquiries, partnership opportunities, or general questions, please contact us at info@societyfortheruleoflaw.org.
Leadership
Meet the board of directors of the Society for the Rule of Law Institute:
Alan Charles Raul
President, Board of Directors
Former Vice Chairman of the White House Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board. Former General Counsel to the Office of Management and Budget. Former General Counsel to the Department of Agriculture. Former Associate Counsel to the President.
The Hon. J. Michael Luttig
Board Member
Former federal judge serving on the US Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit (1991-2006).
The Hon. Barbara Comstock
Board Member
Senior Advisor at Baker Donelson and former member of the United States House of Representatives representing Virginia’s 10th District.
Stuart Gerson
Treasurer, Board of Directors
Member of Epstein Becker & Green, P.C. Former Acting Attorney General in the George H. W. Bush administration and US Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Division (1989-1993).
Michael Shepherd
Board Member
Deputy Assistant Attorney General, 1984-86; Associate Counsel to the President, 1986-87.
We can be reached at info@societyfortheruleoflaw.org. Thank you.
