That's Just Wrong!

NEWS RELEASE (05/04/07): Louisiana Organization for Judicial Excellence Announces New Aggressive Media Campaign - That’s Just Wrong…

The Louisiana Organization for Judicial Excellence (“LOJE”), a non-partisan, voluntary and non-profit civic association of private citizens, lawyers, educators and retired judges, has launched a “controversial” new media campaign focusing on reform of the judicial system in Louisiana.  The slogan “That’s Just Wrong” will be seen on billboards and in print ads, and radio ads can be heard on stations through out the state.

“Apparently this is a ‘controversial’ campaign in some people’s minds since our ads have been rejected by at least one publication.  That’s disappointing because it’s legal in Louisiana for insurance companies, big businesses, attorneys, even criminals to all give money to judicial campaigns – even to the judges who are hearing their cases.  We believe ‘that’s just wrong, and think the citizens of Louisiana agree,” says Randy Hayden, Executive Director of the organization.

“You’ll notice that in the 2007 U.S. Chamber of Commerce study of judicial systems Louisiana’s judiciary ranks near the bottom of most categories and 48th overall.  We rank 49th in judges’ impartiality and competence,” Hayden adds.  “We believe that giving money to judges gives an appearance of impropriety – even if there is no actual impropriety.  In order to improve our image, something must be done.” 

LOJE has led the effort to improve the state’s judicial system by working with lawmakers to implement higher standards for our judiciary.  This includes a recent constitutional amendment increasing qualifications and adopting new residency requirements for Louisiana’s judicial candidates.

For interviews or more information, please contact:
Hayley Little at 866-799-LOJE (5653); hlittle@creative.brcoxmail.com

Louisiana Organization for Judicial Excellence (“LOJE”) is a state-wide organization dedicated to improving the judicial process in Louisiana.  LOJE believes that progressive measures, including a comprehensive merit selection plan, are necessary for judicial reform in our state.  For more information, please visit www.loje.org.

The billboard you see above is now located at I-110 @ America in Baton Rouge, LA.  It can also be seen as you approach the airport in New Orleans, LA.