State Bar of Arizona Files Response to

Maricopa County Attorney’s Special Action Request

PHOENIX – June 18, 2008 –The State Bar of Arizona has filed a detailed six-point response to a request from Maricopa County Attorney Andrew Thomas to stop investigating him for allegations of unethical conduct.

The State Bar asks the Arizona Supreme Court to deny Thomas’ request for special jurisdiction and asks that Thomas address his concerns properly within the established disciplinary investigation process.

In the brief the Bar states that “A lawyer who happens to be an elected public officer…cannot simply opt out of the lawyer-regulatory system claiming the privilege of his elected office.”

Recognizing the unique sensitivities of this particular case and to ensure impartiality, the Bar says that it will appoint an independent investigator/probable cause panelist to finish the remaining investigation into allegations against Thomas.

At the request of the Maricopa County Attorney's Office and for public information we are also posting the Special Action and accompanying affidavits below:

Special Action

Response to Special Action

Affidavits