Ethics

Las Vegas Judge Denies Ethics Violations Amid Controversial Social Media Posts

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LAS VEGAS, Nevada – A Las Vegas judge is facing ethics charges over her social media posts, but she denies any violation of ethical rules. Clark County District Court Judge Erika Ballou, represented by attorney Tom Pitaro, argues that her posts were protected speech and intended as private jokes. The Nevada Commission on Judicial Discipline filed a formal statement of charges against Ballou in January, referencing a photo of her in a hot tub with two public defenders. Ballou is accused of violating multiple rules related to promoting public confidence, avoiding impropriety, and demonstrating impartiality. … Read more

Ethics Panels Clear Former Jan. 6 Witness Lawyer of Complaints: A Look into the Case

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WASHINGTON – The ethics panels have dismissed complaints against a former lawyer who represented a witness in the January 6th Capitol insurrection. The lawyer, Stephen R. Donoghue, previously served as a top attorney in the Justice Department during the Obama administration. According to documents obtained by The New York Times, the Office of Professional Responsibility and the Office of Inspector General concluded that Donoghue did not violate any legal or ethical rules in his representation of the witness, an FBI agent who testified before Congress. The panels determined that Donoghue’s actions were within the bounds … Read more

Georgia District Attorney Fani Willis Faces Ethics Challenges After Ruling in Trump Election Case, Experts Say

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ATLANTA, GEORGIA – As Georgia District Attorney Fani Willis continues to face challenges in her prosecution of former President Donald Trump, legal experts suggest that she may benefit her case by taking a step back. This recommendation comes after a recent ruling by Judge Scott McAfee described an “odor of mendacity” surrounding Willis’ testimony about her relationship with special prosecutor Nathan Wade. While McAfee did not conclude that Willis perjured herself or received financial benefits, he indicated that her involvement with Wade raises concerns. In response, Wade resigned from his position. The case in question … Read more

Sheila Birnbaum Honored with Defendant Award for Championing Ethics in Complex Litigation

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S.F., California – Sheila Birnbaum, a leading attorney in product liability and mass torts, has been awarded the prestigious Defendant Award for Excellence in Ethics in Complex Litigation. The award, presented by the Center for Litigation and Courts at the U.C. College of Law, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to promoting ethical practices in class actions and other complex lawsuits. Throughout her esteemed career, Birnbaum has played an instrumental role in shaping the landscape of product liability litigation. She has served as national counsel or lead defense counsel for numerous Fortune 500 companies, … Read more