HARRISBURG (Oct. 27, 2014) � Pennsylvania Bar Association President Francis X. O�Connor today issued the following statement about the resignation of Supreme Court Justice Seamus P. McCaffery:

"Restoring the public's confidence in the integrity of our highest state court is paramount. The Pennsylvania Bar Association applauds all parties involved for their prompt resolution of this troubling distraction from the business of the Supreme Court.

Because it is important to lawyers and litigants that the Supreme Court functions as efficiently as possible, it is our hope that the Governor and the Pennsylvania Senate will act expeditiously on the appointment of a duly qualified interim justice.

As lawyers, we have a responsibility to do all we possibly can to help preserve the integrity of the justice system and maintain public confidence in our judiciary. The many distinguished, hardworking and honorable judges in Pennsylvania deserve nothing less."

Founded in 1895, the Pennsylvania Bar Association strives to promote justice, professional excellence and respect for the law; improve public understanding of the legal system; facilitate access to legal services; and serve the 27,000 lawyers who are members of the association.