MISSION & OBJECTIVES
OUR MISSION
The Brehon Judges Association unites current and retired state and federal judges of Irish ancestry in celebrating our shared heritage and honoring the legacy of Brehon Law, among the world's most ancient legal traditions.
We are dedicated to fostering fellowship among our members while promoting and preserving Celtic culture through music, dance, art, literature, and sports. By connecting our judicial community to the rich traditions of Ireland, we strengthen both our professional bonds and our cultural identity, ensuring that the wisdom of our ancestors continues to inspire and enrich our lives and the communities we serve.
OUR OBJECTIVES
Historical and Educational Focus
The association aims to study and promote understanding of Brehon law and other Celtic legal traditions. This involves researching how ancient Irish legal principles—such as the emphasis on compensation over punishment, communal responsibility, and restorative approaches—might offer insights for contemporary judicial practice. The association could sponsor lectures, publications, or conferences exploring these connections.
Cross-Border Judicial Dialogue
The association seeks to foster connections among judges across Celtic nations and regions—Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, Brittany, and the Isle of Man—to share perspectives on common legal challenges and learn from different approaches within broadly similar cultural contexts.
Accessible Justice
Brehon law was characterized by its integration into community life rather than being removed from ordinary people. An objective around promoting accessible, community-centered justice honours this tradition while addressing contemporary concerns about public trust in legal institutions.
Professional Fellowship
The association provides a collegial space for judges who share an interest in Celtic heritage and legal philosophy. This fellowship offers opportunities for mutual support, exchange of ideas, and the strengthening of professional bonds among members.