DOJ Sues DC Bar Over Its Prosecution Of Former Trump Lawyer, Calls It "Partisan Arm Of Leftist Causes"
ZeroHedge
Last updated: May 16, 2026
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a complaint against the D.C. Bar, accusing it of acting as a "partisan arm of leftist causes." This action stems from the Bar's alleged use of mandatory dues for activities beyond regulating the legal profession, specifically citing its support for social and political advocacy.
- The DOJ's complaint, filed on May 13, asserts that the D.C. Bar has violated the First Amendment by compelling attorneys to fund political activities against their will.
- The core of the DOJ's argument is that the Bar's expenditures on lobbying, political statements, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives go beyond its statutory purpose of regulating legal practice.
- The complaint highlights instances where the Bar has taken stances on contentious political issues and engaged in advocacy efforts that the DOJ deems partisan.
- This legal challenge raises significant questions about the scope of mandatory bar association activities and the permissible use of member dues.
- The DOJ seeks to prohibit the D.C. Bar from using mandatory dues for non-regulatory purposes and to ensure that members can opt out of funding such activities.
- The lawsuit could set a precedent for how bar associations operate nationwide and their engagement in political discourse.
- This development is seen as a victory for lawyers who have long criticized bar associations for engaging in political activism.
