Prosecutors in this state cannot afford another public embarrassment. The substantiated allegations against John Lavoie and the resulting impeachment investigation compromised the dignity of the legal system.
I truly cannot believe he has put himself forward as a candidate for State’s Attorney.
John Lavoie evaded accountability.
The allegations surrounding his impeachment were not resolved because he resigned. Accountability cannot be self-imposed, and public trust cannot be restored simply by waiting for the controversy to pass.
If a lawyer cannot maintain respect, courtesy and civility, he has no business practicing law. The misconduct at issue occurred after Lavoie had been practicing for decades. He was not a young attorney desperately in need of a mentor; he was an established officer of the Court.
It is hard to believe that this behavior was an isolated incident. Ethical conduct should be ingrained in an attorney’s everyday interactions, both personal and professional.
Staff in prosecutors’ offices routinely intake some of the most disturbing and difficult information imaginable. They are among our most valuable public servants and deserve to be treated with respect and professionalism.
No one should be expected to work in an untenable environment.
I have read praise for Lavoie’s professional competence. That is not enough.
Ethics must be the foundation of the practice of law. Lawyers hold a unique position of public trust, and that position carries responsibilities that extend beyond courtroom performance.
No elected official or candidate should believe that holding public office places him outside the rules. I will not vote for any candidate who holds that view.
