Volume 51, Issue III: The Word is "Humility": Why the Supreme Court Needed to Adopt a Code of Judicial Ethics, by Laurie L. Levenson

The Pepperdine Law Review Volume 51 recently published "The Word is 'Humility': Why the Supreme Court Needed to Adopt a Code of Judicial Ethics," by Laurie L. Levenson.

In her forthcoming, Levenson tackles the pressing issue of declining public trust in the Supreme Court. With confidence in the Court plummeting to historic lows, Levenson highlights recent controversies surrounding luxury perks and special access granted to certain individuals, raising concerns about the Court's commitment to ethical standards and impartiality.

Central to Levenson's argument is the concept of judicial humility—a longstanding principle essential for judges to uphold fairness and maintain public trust. Drawing on ancient wisdom and contemporary discourse, she emphasizes the crucial role of humility in ensuring judges act with integrity and are perceived as unbiased arbiters of justice.

Levenson advocates for the adoption of a comprehensive and enforceable ethical code tailored specifically to the unique responsibilities of Supreme Court justices. Such a code would not only set clear expectations for judicial conduct but also establish mechanisms for accountability, bolstering public confidence in the Court's integrity and impartiality.

To read the full article, click here.