by Kim Mueller | Jul 21, 2026 | Civil Dialogue
PICTURED ABOVE: A soccer field viewed from above, with a gavel at midfield. Bolch Judicial Institute Director Kim Mueller reflects on what soccer’s final whistle can teach us about judicial independence, fair process, and respect for lawful outcomes. One of the most...
by Kim Mueller | Jul 1, 2026 | Civil Dialogue, Latest News
PICTURED ABOVE: Reading the Declaration of Independence by John Nixon from the steps of Independence Hall in Philadelphia, July 8, 1776. Wood engraving by Edwin Austin Abbey, 1876. Library of Congress, no known restrictions on publication. Director Kim Mueller...
by Eric Surber | May 27, 2026 | Civil Dialogue, Latest News
Learn about courts, civic participation, and the rule of law with retired N.C. Supreme Court Justice Robin Hudson. As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, we are excited to share a special presentation of Civics Break, our short civics education course,...
by Eric Surber | Apr 30, 2026 | Bolch Prize, Civil Dialogue, Latest News
On May 1, the United States celebrates Law Day, an annual occasion to reflect on the role of law in American life. The American Bar Association’s 2026 Law Day theme is “The Rule of Law and the American Dream.” The theme asks us to consider what the rule of law means...
by Mia Penner | Feb 3, 2026 | Civil Dialogue
In May 1787, delegates to the Constitutional Convention gathered inside the Philadelphia State House, windows shuttered and doors closed to the public. Just a few years after winning independence, the fledgling United States was already faltering under the Articles of...
by Alexandria Thomas | Dec 9, 2025 | Civil Dialogue
Most people don’t exactly enjoy watching the federal branches of government clash. When the U.S. Supreme Court strikes down an executive order, when the president vetoes a bill, or when Congress moves to impeach a federal officer, the conflict can feel tense and even...