Hon. Robert Dow Shared Insights at Exclusive FBA Chicago Chapter Event
Hon. Robert Dow, former U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois and current Counselor to Chief Justice John Roberts, headlined an exclusive event hosted by the Federal Bar Association Chicago Chapter.
The discussion, moderated by John P. Moynihan, provided attendees with a firsthand look at Judge Dow’s transition from the bench to the U.S. Supreme Court and the unique responsibilities of his role as the Chief Justice’s Chief of Staff. He also shared valuable insights on judicial administration, litigation strategies, and legal career development. This event included one hour of CLE credit and offered attorneys a rare opportunity to engage with one of the nation’s foremost legal minds while networking with peers over lunch.
Hon. Robert Dow’s Perspective on His Role as Counselor to Chief Justice John Roberts
Judge Dow discussed his transition from the federal judiciary to the Supreme Court, where he now serves as Counselor to Chief Justice Roberts. In this role, he provides strategic counsel and administrative support on matters affecting the federal judicial system, including procedural reform, addressing challenges facing the entire federal judiciary, and managing the Court’s relations with the other branches of government. He also shared stories from his time as a law firm partner and an active district court judge, including advice he received as a new judge, as well as tips for practitioners.
Key Takeaways for Judges and Legal Practitioners
Judge Dow shared his observations on procedural reform over the years, particularly in the contexts of class action and multidistrict litigation (MDL). Drawing on his experience with the Judicial Conference’s Advisory Committee on Civil Rules—he chaired the committee’s Rule 23 and MDL Subcommittees and served as Chair of the full committee from 2020 to 2022—he discussed the 2018 amendment to Rule 23, which requires judges to have a more active role in ensuring settlements are fair and equitable to classes of plaintiffs. He also covered proposed Rule 16.1 and described the similar effects it is intended to have on speedy and just resolutions of MDLs.
Engaging Moderation by John P. Moynihan
John P. Moynihan served as the event’s moderator, filling in for Sharon Desh, Partner at Winston & Strawn LLP and the event’s lead organizer. As a former clerk for Judge Dow and a current federal practitioner, he guided the conversation to give attendees a look at Judge Dow’s practical insights and his personal experiences at the Supreme Court and in complex litigation.
Insights from Hon. Robert Dow’s Discussion
This exclusive FBA Chicago Chapter event offered attorneys a unique opportunity to learn from a federal judge now serving in administration at the highest level of the judiciary. Attendees gained a stronger understanding of Supreme Court operations, judicial administration, and recent and upcoming developments for litigating in federal court, particularly in class actions and MDLs. They also walked away with valuable perspectives on the role of the Counselor to the Chief Justice, the challenges the federal judiciary faces, and the role that we all play in supporting the courts and the administration of justice.
To continue the conversation, please feel free to connect with John P. Moynihan and Sharon Desh on LinkedIn.
The Federal Bar Association Chicago Chapter invites you to stay engaged with our mission of connection and professional development. Join us at future events to network, learn, and grow within the legal community. Stay informed about upcoming opportunities by visiting our event calendar!
