The International Society of Barristers was formed to recognize each era’s best advocates that they might join together to support these common goals:

• Retaining trial by jury in litigated matters;
• Improving advocacy under an adversary system;
• Recognizing advocacy as a distinct specialty, with the creation of proper standards for those holding themselves out as advocates;
• Abolishing animosity between counsel representing plaintiffs and defendants, replacing it with a recognition that all trial lawyers are advocates fully representing the rights of all clients;
• Encouraging and demanding ethical conduct by all involved in litigation – parties, witnesses, counsel and judges;
• Insisting that clients be represented by independent counsel owing their allegiance to the client; and
• Protecting the rights of citizens, the independence of the judiciary and the integrity of the Bar.

Membership is by invitation only which is proceeded by a rigorous screening process that considers the lawyer’s ability, experience, accomplishments and ethical standards as assessed by trial lawyers and judges.

The Society holds an annual meeting and publishes a quarterly journal of topics covered at the meeting and otherwise of interest to its members. Through the International Society of Barristers Foundation, the Society supports the work of other organizations whose endeavors are consistent with the Society’s goals.

For further information about the Society, contact its Administrative Secretary, Professor Donald Beskind at Duke University School of Law.

To view the ISOB's statement on the rule of law and opposing retaliation against the legal profession, click here.