What happens when criminal prosecution and political power intersect?

The Chicago Council of Lawyers convened experienced former federal prosecutors, defense attorneys, ethics professionals, and legal scholars for Politically Motivated Prosecutions: Defending the Right to Dissent.

Moderated by Sharon Fairley, the discussion examines how federal charging decisions are traditionally made, the role of grand juries, prosecutorial ethics, political influence within the Department of Justice, accountability for attorney misconduct, and the long-term importance of public trust in the justice system.

Panelists John Koski, Ronald Safer, Chris Gair, Nancy DePodesta, and Gary Shpairo also explore whether longstanding institutional norms can be restored when they are challenged, what role judges and disciplinary authorities can play, and how lawyers should respond when political considerations may intersect with the exercise of prosecutorial power.

Visit the event page to learn more.