MSBA Response to Chief Justice's Resignation

It would be less than honest to say that the news of Chief Justice Magnuson’s decision to step down and return to private practice effective June 30, 2010, did not bring with it a significant measure of disappointment for the MSBA and its members. The disappointment arising from this news stems from the fact that Chief Justice Magnuson has been a strong, dynamic, inspiring, and creative leader of the Minnesota Justice System throughout a critical time in its history. However, we do respect and can appreciate that Chief Justice Magnuson needs to do what is right and best for him and his family, and therefore, the Minnesota State Bar Association supports his decision and wishes him all the best in his future endeavors as he returns to private practice.

The Minnesota State Bar Association will continue to work with and fully support Chief Justice Magnuson’s efforts during the remainder of his tenure to protect adequate legislative funding for the Minnesota Justice System which is necessary in order to insure that all of the citizens of Minnesota continue to benefit from an efficient, affordable, and above all, accessible judicial system. The MSBA also looks forward to continuing to work with Chief Justice Magnuson on mutual efforts to protect and preserve the nationally recognized impartiality of the Minnesota State Courts, as well as, the public’s trust and confidence therein.

--Leo I. Brisbois, President (2009 – 2010), Minnesota State Bar Association