Recognizing that the Court would be aided by the development of an on-going dialogue between private plaintiffs represented by the private bar, and the people of the United States represented by the Department of Justice, the Bar Association's founders institutionalized a mechanism that would insure that each side stood on an equal footing and share in serving the bench and bar. For example, the presidency of the Bar Association alternates annually between the public and private bar. Similarly, the Association's Governing Board, comprised of 12 at-large members (plus the officers), strives to maintain an equal balance in its membership.

By any measure, the prescience of the Bar Association's founders and the goals they established have been and continue to be met. The Bar Association brings together and provides a voice to all of those who are governed by the Court's jurisdiction and an opportunity for the development of long-lasting and fulfilling professional relationships. Members of the Bar Association, working collaboratively, collegially and with a common goal, serve the Court and the public in a meaningful and tangible way. Annual judicial conferences, Law Day celebrations and brown bag dialogues are but a few means by which the bench and bar work together. The result is a meaningful opportunity for CFC practitioners to participate in the enhancement of the Court's administration of justice, enrichment of the quality of advocacy before the Court, and promoting the Court to the legal community and the public as a true People's Court.

From its earliest days to its current generation of leaders, the Bar Association has played an increasing role in the life of the Court. With the unwavering support of the Court, the current leadership and members serve the legal community of bench and bar and look forward to meeting the challenges that lie ahead.