Bribery Conviction Leads To Permanent Disbarment Of Former Congressman

The legal career of convicted former Congressman William J. Jefferson has ended with his  permanent disbarment by the Louisiana Supreme Court.

The court rejected the suggestion that a lesser sanction was appropriate

Here, respondent stands convicted of ten felony criminal offenses arising from his involvement in multiple bribery and fraud schemes committed during his service as a member of the United States Congress. These crimes clearly warrant serious discipline. Indeed, in their respective reports, the hearing committee and the disciplinary board have concluded that respondent’s offenses are so egregious that he should be permanently prohibited from applying for readmission to the bar.

We agree. In Appendix E to Supreme Court Rule XIX, we set forth guidelines illustrating the types of conduct which might warrant permanent disbarment. For purposes of the instant case, Guideline 7 is relevant. That guideline provides:

GUIDELINE 7. Malfeasance in office which results in a felony conviction, and which involves fraud.

In this case, respondent used his congressional office for fraudulent and illegal activities by soliciting bribes in exchange for his official acts. This conduct clearly implicates Guideline 7.

Based on this reasoning, we find permanent disbarment is the appropriate sanction in this case. Accordingly, we will accept the disciplinary board’s recommendation and permanently disbar respondent.

(Mike Frisch)