The New York State Bar Association announced on March 23 that it has formally opposed a proposed rule by the Attorney General which would exempt Department of Justice attorneys from independent oversight by state courts and disciplinary bodies.
The association said this exemption could undermine ethical safeguards that have long been in place for legal professionals. According to the New York State Bar Association, the proposal violates federal law and risks eroding public trust in the justice system.
In a letter to the Attorney General, President Kathleen Sweet said, “NYSBA’s position is clear: government attorneys must be held to the same ethical standards and independent review as every other lawyer. The proposal risks the erosion of public trust in the justice system.”
The association argued that federal law requires Department of Justice attorneys to follow state rules of professional conduct. It also stated that allowing an agency to oversee complaints against its own lawyers creates an inherent conflict of interest and politicizes how discipline is administered.
The full comment letter submitted by NYSBA can be accessed online.
