In California, a judge has recommended that former Trump election lawyer John Eastman be disbarred, with the court’s decision to involuntarily revoke his license imminent. Eastman’s actions in challenging Donald Trump’s 2020 election loss were heavily scrutinized during a lengthy trial, which led to the recommendation for disbarment. The opinion serves as a recommendation to the California Supreme Court, which will have the final say on the punishment. Eastman has the opportunity to appeal the ruling.
The judge’s opinion highlighted Eastman’s failure to uphold honesty and ethical obligations by presenting falsehoods to support his legal arguments. She criticized Eastman for gross negligence in making false statements about the 2020 election without proper investigation or verification. The judge also dismissed Eastman’s claims of believing lies about election fraud, stating that his willful blindness did not absolve him of culpability. The consequences for lawyers who promoted false election fraud theories on Trump’s behalf are being examined.
Eastman’s attorney argued that his client worked as he should have on legal issues after the 2020 election for Trump. He criticized the immediate revocation of Eastman’s law license as unfair, especially as he faces criminal charges in Georgia related to his election work for Trump. The State Bar of California accused Eastman of conspiring with Trump to disrupt the transfer of power, knowing there was no legal basis to block Congress’ certification of Joe Biden’s electoral win.
The disciplinary trial detailed how Eastman misled others by proposing fake electors and advocating for throwing out votes. His lack of remorse and promotion of false claims contributed to the decision to recommend disbarment and impose a $10,000 fine. Despite making false and misleading statements, the judge found no evidence linking Eastman’s actions to the assault on the Capitol. The decision to disbar Eastman is considered a significant accountability milestone by the States United Democracy Center.
Other states are also closely examining the actions of Trump’s 2020 election lawyers, with disciplinary charges being filed against other attorneys, including Jeffrey Clark and Rudy Giuliani. Clark, a former Trump Justice Department official, is currently on trial in a disciplinary proceeding in Washington, DC. Giuliani’s law license is suspended, and there is a recommendation for permanent revocation. Eastman’s bar findings in California could impact his ability to practice law in other states as well.
