During a recent speech at Georgetown Law School, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor emphasized the growing importance of international law in U.S. courts, saying judges would be negligent if they disregarded its importance in a post-September 11th world of heightened tensions. O’Connor said the Supreme Court is taking cases that demand a better understanding of foreign legal systems, noting, “International law is no longer a specialty. … It is vital if judges are to faithfully discharge their duties. Since September 11, 2001, we’re reminded some nations don’t have the rule of law or (know) that it’s the key to liberty.” She stated that international law is “a help in our search for a more peaceful world.” (Associated Press, October 27, 2004) See Supreme Court and International Death Penalty.