California Supreme Court Disbars John Eastman

The California Supreme Court has disbarred John Eastman, a lawyer associated with Donald Trump’s attempts to contest the outcome of the 2020 presidential election.

In a statement, the California state bar announced, “The California Supreme Court today disbarred attorney John Charles Eastman.” This action followed a recommendation by the State Bar Hearing Division, which in March 2024 found Eastman guilty of 10 out of 11 charges related to misconduct and suggested disbarment.

Eastman, who was a key advisor to Trump leading up to the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, had authored a memo regarding then-Vice President Mike Pence’s proposal to reject electoral votes for Joe Biden during a joint congressional session that day, aiming to maintain Trump’s presidency.

According to Chief State’s Attorney George Cardona, following a thorough investigation by the State Bar’s Trial and Examining Divisions, it was determined that Eastman’s actions warranted disciplinary measures. The court found “clear and convincing evidence” of false statements about the 2020 election that misled judges, officials, and the public.

Cardona emphasized in a released statement that Eastman’s behavior fell short of the ethical standards expected of California attorneys.

Eastman’s attorney, Randall Miller, indicated plans to seek a review from the U.S. Supreme Court. Miller asserted, “The California Supreme Court has accepted the State Bar’s recommendation, which we believe contradicts established U.S. Supreme Court precedents that safeguard First Amendment rights, especially concerning attorney discipline.”

In the statement, Miller expressed concerns about the constitutionality of the ruling, suggesting it poses threats to legal speech and the integrity of the judicial process. They plan to challenge this decision, reinforcing their commitment to uphold the rule of law.