Reading Room Document

Service of Department of Justice Attorney as Chairman of the Legal Affairs Committee of State Chapter of National Organization

This document discusses the propriety of an attorney, Mr. A, engaging in certain activities as a member of a national organization. The principal issue is whether A may serve as chairman of the Legal Affairs Committee of his State’s chapter of the organization. The document concludes that A's activities as chairman or even as an active member of the Legal Affairs Committee would constitute the private practice of his profession and therefore be prohibited by 28 CFR 45.735-9(a). Additionally, the document presents questions regarding A's other activities in the organization unrelated to the work of the Legal Affairs Committee, such as attendance at meetings, educating present and prospective members, appearing on radio programs, and lobbying elected officials, and provides guidance on the Department’s regulations regarding these activities.

July 12, 1978