Contact: Kate Sherman and Stephanie Titzel, Pennsylvania Bar Association Communications, 800-932-0311, [email protected]
HARRISBURG, Pa. (April 24, 2024) – Pennsylvania Bar Association (PBA) President Michael J. McDonald has issued the following statement in response to the United States Supreme Court declining to hear an appeal from a Pennsylvania lawyer who challenged Rule 8.4(g) of the Pennsylvania Rules of Professional Conduct:
“For almost eight years, the Pennsylvania Bar Association has been in full support of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania’s implementation of Rule of Professional Conduct 8.4(g) prohibiting a practicing lawyer from knowingly engaging in conduct that constitutes harassment or discrimination based on race, sex, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, ethnicity, disability, age, sexual orientation, marital status or socioeconomic status. We, along with the Philadelphia Bar and Allegheny Bar associations, submitted an amicus brief in the Third Circuit in support of the implementation of Rule 8.4(b). We were disheartened by the appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court and are pleased this challenge is finally over.”
“The PBA has consistently supported efforts by the Disciplinary Board to amend the misconduct rule to prohibit serious acts of bias, prejudice, harassment and discrimination in the practice of law. It is imperative that those that participate in the legal system can do so free of discrimination and harassment. As lawyers, it is our responsibility to work toward a more just, diverse and fair legal system. The Pennsylvania Bar Association will continue to support the implementation of Rule 8.4(g) and we are confident the Rule will provide an important, effective and workable standard for practicing attorneys in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.”
Founded in 1895, the Pennsylvania Bar Association strives to promote justice, professional excellence and respect for the law; improve public understanding of the legal system; facilitate access of legal services; and serve the lawyer members of the state’s largest organized bar association.
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Source: Pennsylvania Bar Association, 100 South Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101