Transparency in Legal Representation: Raising Ethical Questions
We submitted into evidence an email from April 2022 that mentions attorney Robert Minetz, using his law firm email account, in connection with the Finch v Mario Treto Jr. case related to State of Illinois dispensary licenses, it’s submitted in public record evidence and attached below. This email discussed Juan’s case at the time, raising some important questions about potential conflicts of interest.
Now, with Minetz representing Bob Fitzsimmons and nuEra Cannabis in ongoing disputes involving Juan and myself, it brings up some key considerations under the Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct, particularly Rule 1.7, which addresses conflicts of interest. The ethical question here is whether Minetz’s prior involvement or knowledge of the case could create a conflict in his current representation?
Moreover, it’s worth noting that Minetz has now been listed as a witness for myself and the other plaintiffs in the current case due to this email. This adds another layer of complexity to the situation. Should his dual role as both counsel and witness be further examined under ethical standards?
Transparency and adherence to ethical guidelines are critical in maintaining trust in the legal system. It’s important for these concerns to be considered carefully, and I invite those in the legal community to reflect on the potential implications. As I’ve made very clear I’m not a lawyer, I’m just a guy who likes transparency and questioning everything that I don’t understand.. please enlighten me as this isn’t my industry I’m knowledgeable in.
Let's open up a dialogue on the ethical standards we rely on to ensure fairness and transparency.
Tagging those that can hopefully answer these questions for me:
Illinois State Bar Association
ARDC: Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission of the Supreme Court of Illinois
Cook County Bar Association
American Bar Association
National Cannabis Industry Association
The Chicago Bar Association
Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism