http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/...,3439656.story
For eight years after he graduated from law school, however, the board that screens prospective attorneys in Florida would not let him practice law. The Florida Supreme Court agreed with the decision, issuing an order in 2000 that cataloged unpaid bills, extravagant spending and other "financial irresponsibility" up to that time. Justices reserved their strongest condemnation for his failure to stay current on support payments for his only child.
His overall behavior, they wrote, showed "a total lack of respect for the rights of others and a total lack of respect for the legal system, which is absolutely inconsistent with the character and fitness qualities required of those seeking to be afforded the highest position of trust and confidence recognized by our system of law."
I have absolutely no sympathy for Mr Baez. Considering what has come to light since this case began (mostly from his own actions and statements in public), he still shows mo respect for the Judge, the court, other lawyers or people in general. I doubt if his playing the 'race card' endears him to other Hispanic people.
If Mr Baez wants to be reviewed favourably by the courts, fellow Hispanics, the media and the public in general, perhaps he should concentrate on doing his job, quietly, with dignity, and to the best of his ability.
A legal trial that ends in a life or death decision for the client has no room for grandstanding, personal ego, extravagant financial advancement, or games.
Hopefully the Florida Bar Review will take care of Mr Baez's problems and defense lawyers everywhere can breath a sigh of relief that no one is making their jobs even harder.
