MLaw Class of 2018 commits to integrity

By Katie Vloet
U-M Law

Integrity and decency are fundamental building blocks on which to construct a  legal career, the Hon. Judith Levy told MLaw incoming students.

“Your reputation for truthfulness, honesty, civility, and decency, and even kindness is the most important thing you have as a lawyer,” said Levy, U.S. District Court judge for the Eastern District of Michigan. “It matters what you do now, during your education, and during your early years as a lawyer...how you will be viewed for years to come.”

Levy, also a lecturer at Michigan Law, was the speaker at the annual Commitment to Integrity ceremony, during which new students promise they will maintain high standards of academic conduct, professional conduct, and personal conduct.

“It’s not OK to fail to take responsibility for your actions,” Levy said.

“I challenge each and every one of you here today at the University of Michigan Law School to practice humility, honesty, decency, and truthfulness.” The judicial system, she said, “is only as good as the hands to whom we entrust it.”