Key Takeaways:
- Kenneth Chesebro is now barred from practicing law in Washington, D.C.
- He helped plan fake electors to overturn the 2020 election results.
- He pleaded guilty to racketeering charges in Georgia.
- D.C. court will decide his final punishment after review.
Chesebro Suspended by D.C. Appeals Court
In a recent order, the U.S. Court of Appeals for D.C. ruled that Chesebro suspended must stop practicing law in the district. This move follows his conviction for serious crimes linked to the 2020 election scheme. First reported by political reporters, the order also sends his case to a committee for final discipline recommendations.
Chesebro Suspended Elsewhere Before D.C. Move
Earlier this year, Chesebro suspended lost his law license in New York. In fact, he has faced bans in multiple states for the same conduct. Now, his suspension in D.C. highlights a growing list of legal setbacks. Lawyers across the country watch this case as a new step in holding election plotters to account.
Role in the Fake Elector Plot
Back in 2020, Chesebro was the architect of a memo that laid out how to use fake electors. He advised creating teams of people to claim they were the true electors in states President Biden won. Then, these fake slates could challenge the real ones. In fact, a different lawyer told Vice President Pence to use them to discard Biden’s votes. Ultimately, Pence refused this plan, calling it unconstitutional.
Guilty Plea and Legal Consequences
Chesebro pleaded guilty to racketeering charges in Georgia. As part of a broader case, he admitted to plotting with others to overturn the election. Meanwhile, charges against former President Trump in Georgia stalled over an ethics issue. However, Chesebro’s plea shows prosecutors still push cases against key plotters.
Committee Review and Final Discipline
The D.C. court order sent Chesebro’s file to its Committee on Admissions and Grievances. Next, the committee will decide how harsh his final punishment should be. They will consider his guilty plea and past actions. Therefore, Chesebro suspended faces possible disbarment or other serious penalties.
What Comes Next for Chesebro?
After the committee meets, the D.C. court will deliver its final decision. If disbarred, Chesebro cannot practice law anywhere covered by D.C. rules. On the other hand, he may appeal for leniency. However, courts rarely restore licenses after such convictions.
Implications for Other Lawyers
This case sends a warning to attorneys involved in election challenges. Moreover, it shows that courts will act when lawyers break key legal rules. As a result, more lawyers may face discipline for helping push false election claims.
Looking Back at the Fake Elector Cases
Several people who served as fake electors were charged too. Many of those charges have since dropped. Still, Chesebro’s case moves forward. In fact, his suspension highlights the serious view courts take on undermining elections.
The Path of Accountability
Chesebro suspended from D.C. bar marks another step in election integrity efforts. While some cases stalled, this discipline shows courts can punish those who break the law. Moving forward, legal experts expect more scrutiny of any similar schemes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to Kenneth Chesebro’s suspension from the D.C. bar?
Chesebro suspended went into effect after his guilty plea to racketeering charges related to the 2020 fake elector plot.
Has Chesebro faced similar suspensions in other places?
Yes. Chesebro suspended in New York earlier this year and lost his license in multiple states.
What role did Chesebro play in the 2020 election plan?
He drafted a memo on how to use fake electors to challenge and override legitimate election results.
What happens after the committee review?
The D.C. court will set Chesebro’s final punishment, which could be full disbarment or another sanction.