Indeed, the bar conducted an inquiry into former Speaker Willie Brown's legal practice while he dominated the legislature. That is not to imply wrongdoing, but obvious jurisdiction. It is not unheard of for political activists or special interests with a lot at stake in Sacramento to make accusations of unethical conduct about attorneys working the other side. Of course, the public needs an independent State Bar Court. And so does the profession.
Attorneys challenge the executive branch and the legislature.
That is one of our most important jobs. And after 35 years of it, I can tell you, it ain't easy. Checking it is difficult enough without that political system's involvement in the appointment and reappointment of folk making the critical trial level findings over accusations which could permanently pull your ticket to practice. And the slippery slope argument, which is often unpersuasive, has force here. Sen. John Burton is a smart and humane fellow.