Department of Justice Seal


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CIV

FRIDAY, JUNE 5, 1998 (202) 616-2765

TDD (202) 514-1888

FINDING OF UNETHICAL CONDUCT AGAINST DOJ ATTORNEY REVERSED


The U.S. Department of Justice today applauded a recent U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit decision vindicating the ethical conduct of one of its trial attorneys.

In a clear opinion in Palmer v. United States, a wrongful death case brought under the Federal Tort Claims Act, the appellate court reversed a U.S. District judge's finding of misconduct against trial attorney Patricia Reedy. The appellate court ruled that there is no evidence that Ms. Reedy misled the court in any way in connection with the supposed destruction of documents.

Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Division Frank W. Hunger stated, "The Appellate Court ruled that upon learning that documents might have been destroyed, Ms. Reedy promptly informed her supervisors and acted properly in all respects. Indeed, the court specifically found that Ms. Reedy's conduct was 'appropriate and commendable.'"

Mr. Hunger added, "This opinion finally clarifies the record in what has been a very difficult matter. We have had complete confidence that Ms. Reedy's actions were at all times appropriate, and we are proud of her representation in this case."

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