The myriad benefits of clerking for a judge often include gaining an appreciation for the law, accruing invaluable notes, and earning the prestige that accompanies maintaining the rule of law. However, it should not be used as an opportunity to engage in illegal activities such as embezzlement, an issue that recently plagued a Michigan judge. Upon reviewing their financial statements, the judge discovered they kept their enemies a tad too close for comfort.
According to a reputable media outlet in the legal sector, the ABA Journal, a former court clerk in Wayne County, Michigan, has been charged with embezzling over $60,000 from the judge for whom he worked. The accused, Steven Allen, 42, resident of Detroit, allegedly illegally obtained the judge’s ATM card to make purchases and withdrawals.
Indeed, current economic times are strenuous and it isn’t unheard of for even associates in large law firms (or Biglaw for those familiar with legal lingo) to resort to side gigs in order to meet their monetary goals. With the rise of digital platforms, many legal professionals have even turned to online sites such as Etsy to supplement their income. However, resorting to fraudulent activities to remediate financial troubles, especially in the legal sphere, is nothing short of scandalous.
The integrity of judges should remain above doubt. Just like how judges facing housing troubles lead to controversies, judges with missing income can lead to potential scandals. This particular incident can be correlated with the disconcerting tensions surrounding some of the decisions made by judges, enough to make even a few discount the Supremacy Clause.
Given the Supreme Court’s dwindling popularity, allegations and circumstances such as these only tend to tarnish its image further. Irrespective of rank or role, individuals in the legal profession ought to uphold the principle of the law and steer clear of such fraudulent practices, reaffirming their commitment to justice.
For a lucid account of the entire incident, the original article is accessible here.