Open Ninth

Conversations Beyond the Courtroom.

Rule of Law

In 1993, Russia adopted the Constitution of the Russian Federation. With it came the abolishment of communism and the dissolution of the Soviet system of government. Nearly 25 years have passed and the intervening years mark the evolution of a nation and its judicial system. Looking to truly take the conversation beyond the courtroom, Chief Judge Fred Lauten sat down with former Russian legal professionals, Judge Margarita Riley, and attorney, Marina Ellis. Listen in as they explore the Russian judicial branch, the places where Russian rule of law is similar to our own, and the impact of Russia’s democratic constitution on the nation.

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In this episode

Judge Fred Lauten served in the Ninth Circuit from 1994 to 2019. Between 2015 and 2019, he served as Chief Judge of the circuit.

Frederick J. Lauten

Former Chief Judge and Moderator

Judge Fred Lauten served in the Ninth Circuit from 1994 to 2019. Between 2015 and 2019, he served as Chief Judge of the Circuit.

Marina Ellis

Ex-Civil and Business Law Lawyer in Russia

Marian received a Master’s in Law from Southern Federal University in Russia. Before immigrating to the U.S., she practiced civil and business law.

Margarita Riley

Ex-Circuit Judge in Stavropol, Russia

Margarita received her Master’s in Law from Rostov State University and served as a circuit judge in Stavropol, Russia before immigrating the U.S.