Statement by New York State Bar Association President Stephen P. Younger on the Importance of the Independence of the Judiciary

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg's recent comments regarding a temporary restraining order issued by State Supreme Court Justice Emily Jane Goodman - and his call for intervention by the Chief Judge - are extremely disappointing.  It is crucially important for the judiciary to maintain its independence and its ability to act in accord with its interpretation of the law and the facts, without fear of political pressure.  The independence of the judiciary and our judicial process, which includes appellate courts, is a cornerstone of our democracy.