WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), along with Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Chris Coons (D-DE), have called on the American Bar Association (ABA) to investigate the effects of legal history disclosure requirements on survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. The Senators expressed concerns about the burdens placed on survivors during the state bar admissions process.
In a letter to the ABA, the Senators highlighted how survivors may be required to disclose sensitive information about their past experiences, including campus sexual misconduct complaints or protection orders related to domestic violence or sexual assault. The ambiguity surrounding what must be disclosed and how this information is utilized was emphasized as a significant burden on survivors.
The Senators pointed out that these disclosure requirements, even if they do not prevent an applicant from being admitted to the bar, can still create challenges for survivors that outweigh any potential benefits to the bar. They also raised awareness of the negative consequences, such as delays in bar admission, which could impact survivors' ability to establish their professional careers.
Acknowledging the ABA's role in promoting fairness and inclusivity in the legal profession, the Senators urged the organization to address the issue. They requested the ABA to conduct research on the impact of mandatory disclosures on survivors, explore ways for state bars to alleviate burdens on survivors during the admissions process, and identify best practices that state bars can implement to support survivors.
The Senators emphasized the importance of understanding the implications of legal history disclosure requirements on survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, urging the ABA to take action to ensure a more supportive and inclusive environment within the legal profession.