In her article, Joanna Parafianowicz reflects on a satirical drawing by judge Arkadiusz Krupa, depicting a judge's resignation with irony that highlights the current state of the rule of law in Poland. The image conveys the bitterness and irony surrounding the judicial reforms that have been perceived as undermining judicial independence. Parafianowicz emphasizes that the legal community has often remained surprisingly reticent, even when constitutional principles are at stake.

She argues that the legal profession, particularly lawyers, should take on the role of guardians of civil rights and of the constitutional rule of law, especially in times of political turbulence. The paradox remains that while legal standards should ideally support the independence of the judiciary, the response from legal professionals has been muted, raising concerns about their commitment to these principles. Parafianowicz believes that this silence is a problem that needs urgent attention, as the consequences affect the entire legal system and the public’s trust in justice.

The piece calls for a more active engagement from lawyers in advocating for civil rights and ensuring that the rule of law is not merely a political tool but a fundamental principle upheld across all levels of governance. This engagement is crucial not just for the legal community but for society as a whole, as the future of Poland’s democracy hinges on the strength and independence of its judicial system and the willingness of legal professionals to defend it vigorously.