After Chief Justice John Roberts recently pushed back against calls from the Trump administration to impeach certain judges, discussions on social media sparked claims about a so-called “secret club” comprised of judges and legal professionals allegedly working against President Trump. Many individuals speculated about the intentions of these judges, suggesting there could be a coordinated effort to undermine the former president.
One judge mentioned in these conversations is U.S. District Judge James E. Boasberg, whom Trump had previously criticized, demanding his removal for halting deportation flights the president sought to implement under a historical legal framework.
However, the group being referenced—the American Inns of Court—has a notable public presence, which counters the notion that it operates as some clandestine organization. Importantly, there is no valid evidence to support the idea that its members are engaged in political maneuvers directed at opposing Trump. In fact, Chief Justice Roberts is no longer an active member, and Judge Boasberg is leading a chapter that has not been affiliated with the national organization for nearly a decade.
Let’s clarify the facts surrounding this situation:
Claim: Roberts, Boasberg, and other influential judges are part of a hidden, invite-only group working against Trump.
Reality: This claim is not accurate. Roberts was associated with the Edward Coke Appellate Inn of Court before his Supreme Court confirmation in 2005, but he is not currently involved with this or any chapter, according to Malinda Dunn, the Executive Director of the American Inns of Court.
Judge Boasberg serves as the president of the Edward Bennett Williams Inn of Court; however, this chapter disaffiliated from the national body around ten years ago due to its decision to stop paying dues. While Boasberg was an active member prior to that split, his current role does not connect him to any national schemes.
The American Inns of Court operates transparently, with its chapters having their own websites and public programs designed for networking and mentorship among legal professionals. The group maintains a political neutrality, welcoming members with diverse beliefs, as stated by Dunn.
Despite the facts, some social media users have nonetheless claimed that there are hidden agendas at play within the organization. One post on X declared that Chief Justice Roberts belonged to an elite and exclusive group alongside numerous judges viewed as anti-Trump.
Membership in the American Inns of Court includes a broad spectrum of participants. Notable past and present members include Supreme Court justices from various political backgrounds, reflecting the organization’s commitment to professionalism and civility in the legal field.
The American Inns of Court has deep roots, inspired by similar groups that have been part of the legal landscape in the United Kingdom for centuries. It was established in the United States in 1980 through discussions among various legal professionals, including former Chief Justice Warren Burger. The organization focuses on promoting ethics, professionalism, and mentoring within the legal community.
In a video from 2015, Justice Sandra Day O’Connor highlighted that the essence of the American Inns of Court is about fostering a standard of professionalism and ethics.
Across the United States, over 300 active chapters exist, with each managing its member practices according to their particular fields of law. Some chapters even seek out younger legal professionals to join through membership drives.
Chief Justice Roberts also holds an honorary title in a historic inn in the U.K., which is a ceremonial position typically extended to U.S. Supreme Court justices upon their confirmation. His representation in this role does not imply any contemporary political ties or actions of significance.
As of now, there has been no response from representatives for both Chief Justice Roberts and Judge Boasberg concerning these claims.
