Student Code Of Professional Responsibility - 1077 Words

As members of Western College of Law, and, moreover, as members of the legal and academic communities, students must hold themselves to the highest standards of ethical behavior. An individual whose actions impugn the integrity of his self or herself necessarily impugn the integrity of the institutions and communities in which they are permitted membership. Moreover, those who would practice law have a sworn duty to the People, who must trust in the honor and integrity of their legal advocates and representatives. If the People lose faith in the law, the law loses its efficacy as a tool for the public good. Therefore, as protectors of the academic and professional ethics of this honorable profession, this board has a sacred duty to†¦show more content†¦Section IV (A)(1)(2) and (3) of the Student Code of Professional Responsibility (Student Code) dictates, â€Å"[a]ny conduct pertaining to academic or other University matters that evidences fraud, deceit, [or] dishonestyâ₠¬  constitutes a violation of the Student Code. Furthermore, it states, â€Å"[a]ny criminal act that raises serious doubts about the accused student’s honesty, integrity or fitness to practice law† constitutes a violation of the student code. Mr. O’Shea committed this act â€Å"purposefully† and â€Å"knowingly† in violation of section IV (B). The Committee should expel Mr. Oshea from Western College of Law. Admission to the State Bar will require that Mr. Oshea to prove that he â€Å"[i]s a person of good moral character, which may be proved by any evidence satisfactory to the court.† Furthermore, the State Bar often considers an applicant’s financial integrity. In Application of Taylor, the Supreme Court of Oregon denied the applicant, relying heavily on the evidence that the he had committed theft and that he had exhibited dishonest financial practices. Mr. Oshea’s offense covers both of these grounds with a single act. The Committee should apply the same logic to its decision. Though this recommendation is admittedly severe, the details Mr. Oshea’s actions clearly warrant expulsion. Mr. Oshea intentionally committed fraud. As a law student, he cannot reasonably claim ignorance to the illegality of his actions. Additionally, Mr. O’Shea stole a sum of