John Eastman, a former Trump attorney, is seeking to reinstate his law license so that he can represent Reps. Matt Gaetz and Marjorie Taylor Greene in a legal battle involving political speech. Eastman is facing significant legal bills stemming from his efforts to overturn the 2020 election, with estimated costs exceeding $3 million even if he is fully exonerated in the Georgia election subversion case. The fallout from his actions during the 2020 election has led to his disbarment in California, preventing him from having any legal clients while he appeals the decision. Eastman faces a criminal trial in Fulton County, Georgia, related to the election.
Eastman’s request to reactivate his law license is driven by the need to pay his legal fees and defend himself in the ongoing legal battles. He has already incurred more than $1 million in legal fees and anticipates that the costs could increase further as he faces the criminal trial in Georgia. Despite representing influential clients such as Gaetz and Greene, Eastman has run into legal troubles due to his involvement in efforts to overturn the election results. His clients are supportive of his legal work and have requested that he continue to represent them despite the disciplinary issues he faces.
Eastman’s legal work has focused on constitutional issues, including challenges to open primaries and lawsuits related to political rallies. He no longer represents Trump in election challenges and asserts that he is no longer a threat to the public or his clients. Eastman’s prominent clients, including Gaetz and Greene, are advocating for him to continue his legal work, citing their right to choose their own counsel. Campaign finance records show that Greene’s campaign committee has paid Eastman for legal services, indicating ongoing support for his representation.
Eastman has garnered support from a range of clients who value his legal expertise and representation. Sworn statements from clients, including a mother whose child is involved in a First Amendment lawsuit, demonstrate their desire for Eastman to continue representing them. The California bar disciplinary prosecutor has yet to respond to Eastman’s request to reactivate his law license, leaving the final decision in the hands of the disciplinary judge. Eastman’s legal troubles underscore the challenges faced by Trump allies and the significant costs involved in defending against legal allegations.
