Assuring that the judiciary has the resources to do the job that the legislature expects is fundamental. An environment in which judges can do their work absent threats to independence is fundamental too. One of the best ways to strengthen the court-legislature relationship is to promote dialogue between the two branches on matters of mutual concern. A good example of such communication was the American Judicature Society's recent National Symposium on Sentencing, at which federal and state judges, lawmakers, and others shared ideas about sentencing reform. Many other issues can be productive topics of discussion between the judicial and legislative branches.
Separation of powers is a defining principle of American government.
Yet when it comes to relations between judges and legislators, separation can become isolation, leading to misunderstanding, mistrust, and animosity. Because each branch largely relies on the other, bridging the communication gap between them promotes sound public policy.