The Washington State Bar Association's Rule of Law Ambassador Program provides guidance and resources for legal professionals to champion and defend legal institutions in our constitutional democracy.

Here are three steps you can take now to help rebuild trust in the U.S. Constitution and Rule of Law: 

 

STEP ONE

Make sure you’re versed in the U.S. Constitution, the rule of law, and the functions of our democracy.

American Bar Association 
What is the Rule of Law?

WSBA CLE
“Rule of Law and Constitutional Crises for Lawyer Ambassadors”
Presented live May 6, 2025, live. Register or watch the recorded version of this free CLE.

STEP TWO

Prepare to connect rather than correct when dispelling misinformation about the legal system. Lawyers have a unique and solemn obligation, as stated in the preamble to their Rules of Professional Conduct: "A lawyer should further the public’s understanding of and confidence in the rule of law and the justice system because legal institutions in a constitutional democracy depend on popular participation and support to maintain their authority.”

Divided Community Project
Speaking Out to Strengthen the Guardrails of Democracy

Guidance from UW’s Information School
“To Combat Misinformation, Start with Connection not Correction.”

STEP THREE

Demonstrate a non-partisan commitment to civil discourse about democracy in your community. The same laws apply to everyone, and everyone is treated equally under the law; government power is bound by law; and human rights are guaranteed to all. This is the promise of the rule of law in our constitutional democracy, and what we strive for in Washington.

Divided Community Project, Moritz College of Law
Key themes for speaking out


Ted Talk by Stephen J. Cox, Republican governor of Utah
“How to Disagree with Respect ‒ Not Hate”

This list is for accessible, daily actions. It's just the start of an evolving, dynamic tool kit.

If you’re ready to go further, both the WSBA and American Bar Association are here to support our Ambassadors. Please reach out if you’d like to brainstorm about a step you’re ready to take. You can request presentation templates, a speaker for a community or civic presentation, guidance for writing op-eds, and more. ambassadors@wsba.org