‘He broke more ethics rules than he followed:’ Jeff Mandell on the Charges Against Former Justice Michael Gableman

Former Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Michael Gableman is formally charged with attorney misconduct by the state’s Office of Lawyer Regulation (OLR) Tuesday. The charges stem from Gableman’s controversial investigation into unfounded allegations of fraud in the 2020 presidential election. He is accused of violating multiple ethical standards, including misleading the public, lying in court, and wasting more than $1 million in taxpayer funds.

Mr. Gableman broke more ethics laws than he followed. He lied to courts, opposing counsel, and the public, while acting far beyond his knowledge and competence.

Jeff Mandell, Law Forward

The investigation was originally ordered by Assembly Speaker Robin Vos. It’s been widely criticized as a partisan effort that failed to produce any credible evidence of election fraud. Law Forward filed a 100-page complaint with the OLR in March of 2023. It detailed extensive allegations against Gableman. Jeff Mandell is general counsel for the Wisconsin-based legal advocacy group and talks exclusively with Maggie Daun, host of The Maggie Daun Show, and says there are violations of every sentence in the state’s attorney oath.

“Mr. Gableman broke more ethics laws than he followed,” Mandell says. “He lied to courts, opposing counsel, and the public, while acting far beyond his knowledge and competence.”

The OLR’s 10-count complaint outlines a process that will now move forward in Wisconsin’s judicial system. Mandell explains that Gableman will have the opportunity to contest the allegations, leading to a hearing before an independent referee. Ultimately, the Wisconsin Supreme Court will determine whether Gableman faces sanctions, which could include suspension or disbarment.

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Watch the entire interview starting at 1:03:30 here:

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This misconduct case is the latest in a growing trend of accountability for legal and political figures. It coincides with national and state-level efforts to address election-related ethical breaches. Wisconsin’s judiciary has recently taken action against lawyers involved in the 2020 fake elector scheme. It signals a commitment to uphold legal and ethical standards.

Mandell emphasizes there are broader implications, too.

“As we approach another pivotal election cycle, it’s critical to reinforce the principle that those who flout ethical rules will be held accountable,” Mandell explains. “This is about protecting the integrity of our democracy.”

The case also highlights the importance of state Supreme Court elections. The next one is scheduled for April 2025. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for Wisconsin with issues like reproductive freedom, voting rights, and judicial transparency at stake.

The complaint against Gableman reflects growing public demand for accountability. It also serves as a reminder – at all levels of government, ethical conduct must remain a cornerstone of public service.

Related story: Disciplinary Complaint Filed Against Former Justice Michael Gableman