Escalation: DC Bar Files Disciplinary Charges Against Martin

The D.C. Disciplinary Counsel made public on March 10 a two‑count ethics complaint against Ed Martin. It centers on a Feb. 17, 2025 letter he sent as interim U.S. attorney to Georgetown Law warning that his office would not hire its students, fellows, or interns unless the school ended DEI teaching, and demanding changes to the curriculum. The complaint alleges he used the authority of his office to punish a viewpoint, violating his oath and the First and Fifth Amendments.

The second count arises from his response to the inquiry. After being asked to answer the ethics complaint, he wrote ex parte to the D.C. Court of Appeals’ chief and senior judges, said he would not respond, criticized the disciplinary counsel, and sought a face‑to‑face meeting while copying the White House counsel. He was told to use proper channels, but sent further letters urging the counsel’s suspension and dismissal of the case.

The matter is now before the D.C. Court of Appeals’ Board on Professional Responsibility. Possible penalties include suspension or disbarment, and the process can take years. Martin has 20 days to respond in writing.

AI-synthesized from multiple reported sources