
In this commentary, law professors Abbe Smith and Ellen Yaroshefsky reflect on the legal profession’s responsibility to uphold ethical standards, focusing on efforts to initiate an ethics investigation into former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi. They emphasize the duty of lawyers to speak out when legal ethics are undermined, especially in politically charged contexts. The authors argue that Bondi’s actions—particularly in connection with Donald Trump—may have violated professional conduct rules, and they highlight how members of the legal community have mobilized to hold her accountable. The piece underscores the importance of ethical courage and the legal profession’s role in defending democratic norms.