Story perspectives

Justice Dept Sues D.C. Bar Over Politicized Lawyer Discipline

5/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Justice Department sued the D.C. Bar on Wednesday to halt disciplinary proceedings it says target executive-branch lawyers.
Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward’s complaint alleges the recommendation to revoke Jeffrey Clark’s law license is politically motivated and harsher than the case of former FBI lawyer Kevin Clinesmith.
The Justice Department also filed a statement of interest supporting Ed Martin, accused of sending a threatening letter to Georgetown Law’s dean.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Justice Department sued the D.C. Bar on Wednesday to halt disciplinary proceedings it says target executive-branch lawyers.
Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward’s complaint alleges the recommendation to revoke Jeffrey Clark’s law license is politically motivated and harsher than the case of former FBI lawyer Kevin Clinesmith.
The Justice Department also filed a statement of interest supporting Ed Martin, accused of sending a threatening letter to Georgetown Law’s dean.