Our Work
Advancing the rule of law through judicial education, scholarship, and public engagement.
From its home at Duke Law School, the Bolch Judicial Institute brings together judges, scholars, lawyers, students, and the public to strengthen the judiciary, deepen understanding of courts, and support a fair, impartial, and independent system of justice.
Judicial Education
We develop and deliver educational programs that help judges, lawyers, and court leaders respond to emerging needs, improve court processes, and strengthen the fair and impartial administration of justice.
Judicial Studies LLM
An advanced graduate program for active judges and justices who wish to deepen their study of law, judging, and judicial institutions.
Francis McGovern Symposium on Civil Litigation
An annual symposium focused on civil litigation, multidistrict litigation, mass harms, mediation, settlement, and related topics.
Trauma-Informed Courts
Educational programming for judges and court administrators on trauma-informed practices and systems-level change in courts.
Judicial Seminars
Seminars and educational programs for judges and legal professionals in the United States and abroad on timely issues affecting courts, judging, and the rule of law.
Additional program information is forthcoming.
Mass Tort MDL Certificate
A practical certificate course designed to prepare and inspire new leaders in mass tort MDLs and complex litigation practice.
International Programs
Educational opportunities that support judges and courts around the world while strengthening relationships with global judiciaries.
Additional program information is forthcoming.
Study of the Judiciary
We examine courts, judging, and judicial systems through scholarship, research, and dialogue that connect academic inquiry with the practical work of the judiciary.
Publications & Judicial Scholarship
Publications and scholarship that examine courts, judging, judicial systems, and the practical work of the judiciary.
Judicial Administration Roundtable
An invitation-only focus group for scholars to develop and refine new work on judicial administration.
Distinguished Judge in Residence
A program that brings outstanding jurists to Duke Law School to engage with faculty, students, and the broader academic community.
Public Outreach & Civic Education
Helping the public better understand courts, judges, and the rule of law through civic education, public engagement, and resources that support confidence in an independent judiciary.
Defending the Judiciary
Resources and public education efforts that help the legal profession and broader community respond to unjust attacks on judges and strengthen understanding of judicial independence.
Civics Break
A nonpartisan civic education program that explains the rule of law, the role of courts, and how judges and the judiciary affect everyday life.
Recognizing Excellence
Through the Bolch Prize and the Raphael Lemkin Rule of Law Guardians series, the Institute recognizes leaders whose work strengthens justice, protects the rule of law, and inspires public understanding of the judiciary’s role in society.
Explore More
Continue learning about the Institute’s work through our publications, media, news, and events.
Publications & Media
Read scholarship, commentary, reports, and resources from the Institute.
News & Events
Find recent news, upcoming programs, and highlights from the Institute.