The Dark Side of Legal Ethics: The Most Unethical Actions by Attorneys for Their Clients
Legal professionals are held to a high standard of ethical conduct, yet notorious cases of unethical behavior by lawyers show that even the brightest minds can succumb to temptation. This article explores some of the most unethical actions by attorneys on behalf of their clients, highlighting the consequences and exposing the dark side of legal ethics.
A Brother’s Involvement in a Legal Mishap
The story begins with a brother who wanted to ensure his sibling had a stark advantage in a legal case. Out of the blue, he sent a meticulously assembled suit, including a jacket, slack trousers, shoes, belt, shiny shirt, and gleaming tie, to the attorney’s office. However, the suit was not brought to the trial, and the attorney was seen wearing it instead. The attorney’s actions raised ethical concerns, as he not only failed to use the provided attire but also misled the client.
Furthermore, the attorney had the client sign a form that released an exculpatory witness. The client, only later realizing the implications, discovered that signing the form allowed inadmissible evidence against him. The judge confirmed that the client had unknowingly signed a paper that allowed this illegal evidence.
The incident escalated when the lack of a chain of custody letter for the evidence was pointed out, further disqualifying it from admissible use. The client and three others were arrested, but due to the absence of a search warrant, the cases were eventually dismissed. Unfortunately for the client, the period of imprisonment amounted to a total of three years.
Keith Blackburn and the Fastest-Growing Ponzi Scheme
He was a renowned lawyer known for his persuasive skills and extensive knowledge of the law. Keith Blackburn was the charismatic and resourceful master behind the largest Ponzi scheme in American history. His actions were so breathtaking in their audacity that the Internal Revenue Service investigated and took him to court.
By taking advantage of his clients' trust, Blackburn orchestrated a massive pyramid scheme that led to financial ruin for many. This unethical behavior brought attention to the darker side of legal ethics and the significant damage that can be done when a lawyer’s integrity is compromised.
John Dean and the Watergate Scandal
John Dean, the then-White House Counsel, provided Nixon with advice that ultimately led to the president's impeachment. During a conversation about the infamous Watergate break-in, Nixon pressed Dean for alternatives when his committee paid some individuals to plant listening devices at the Democratic National Headquarters.
Dean, initially taken aback by the president's suggestion to pay off the individuals involved, tried to dissuade him with practical alternatives. However, Nixon insisted and inquired about the potential cost. Dean, seeking to make the idea ridiculous, suggested an exorbitant sum. To his shock, Nixon actually considered this and asked for a detailed proposal.
Unbeknownst to Dean, Nixon had the Watergate tapes recording all such conversations. These tapes, which Nixon was forced to produce, revealed his involvement in covering up the break-ins. The conversation between Dean and Nixon confirmed that Nixon was aware of the break-ins and had planned to cover them up, leading to his eventual impeachment.
These incidents serve as stark reminders of the ethical responsibilities that attorneys are expected to uphold and the severe consequences when those responsibilities are neglected.