Welcome to another week of unraveling dramatic developments in the legal ethics sphere. From landmark disbarment cases to potential hefty tax implications for litigation funders and lawyers, the landscape of legal ethics continues to evolve with significant implications for the legal community. Here's a rundown of the most compelling stories from the past week.

DOJ’s Unprecedented Legal Move Against Maryland Judges Raises Eyebrows

In an unusual legal maneuver, the Justice Department has taken the bold step of suing all federal district court judges in Maryland. This action stems from a dispute over a deportation order that halts deportations under legal challenge in Maryland for 48 hours. Legal analysts are stunned by this challenge to judicial independence, highlighting a potential overreach of executive powers.

Whistleblower Alleges Serious Misconduct by DOJ Official

A whistle-blower within the Justice Department has accused senior official Emil Bove III of instructing his team to disregard court orders to advance a stringent deportation campaign. This revelation has sparked outrage and concerns over the integrity of legal processes under the current administration.

New York Disbars Lawyer Involved in Phony Elector Scheme

Kenneth Chesebro, known for his role in the controversial attempt to use fake electors to overturn the 2020 election results, has been officially disbarred in New York. This decision follows his guilty plea in a related racketeering case in Georgia, marking a significant fall from grace for the Harvard-educated lawyer who once represented Vice President Al Gore.

Litigation Funders and Lawyers Face Potential 40.8% Tax

A new tax proposal could impose a 40.8% tax on litigation funders and law firms, sparking widespread concern within the legal community. This proposal, part of a larger tax bill currently under Senate review, aims to curb frivolous lawsuits and foreign influence in the U.S. judiciary system. Both domestic and international investors and legal professionals are anxiously watching the developments.

#MeToo Verdicts Highlight Challenges in Judgment Collections

A report has shed light on the difficulties plaintiffs face in collecting judgments from #MeToo and other civil cases. Despite winning in court, many find the actual collection of awarded sums arduous and often financially draining, with lawyers and third-party funders taking significant cuts of the recovered amounts.

Former Justice Kennedy Voices Concerns Over Democracy

In a poignant statement, former Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy expressed concerns about the current state of democracy in the U.S. Citing acrimonious political discourse and threats to judges, Kennedy warned of the risks these issues pose to the foundational principles of freedom and democratic governance.

As we continue to monitor these stories and more, the legal community is reminded of the ever-evolving challenges and responsibilities inherent in upholding the principles of justice and ethical conduct. Stay tuned for further developments in these critical areas that shape the landscape of law and governance.