A Montana Supreme Court panel reviewed disciplinary recommendations against Attorney General Austin Knudsen on Friday. Found violating 41 rules of conduct by Montana’s Commission on Practice, only some charges were forwarded to the Supreme Court. The panel of justices and district court judges convened to deliberate on potential disciplinary actions.
Knudsen’s actions in 2021 during a conflict with the judicial branch are at the center of the case. He refused a Supreme Court order and criticized the justices, with his defense claiming a First Amendment right to court criticism.
Chief Justice Cory Swanson noted the lack of detail in findings against Knudsen, expressing surprise over missing pages in the report. Swanson and Justice Katherine Bidegaray, both newly elected, were joined by five district court judges for the hearing.
Judge Gregory Bonilla from the 9th Judicial District echoed concerns over the Commission’s management and timing of the case before the 2024 election, in which Knudsen was re-elected.
Disciplinary Counsel Tim Strauch defended the brevity of the details presented, explaining that the Commission operates as an extension of the Supreme Court, not subject to district court rules. Strauch emphasized Knudsen’s defiance of a 2021 court order, stressing the attorney general’s lack of contrition.
Knudsen’s legal team argues for case dismissal, citing free speech rights, with attorney Christian Corrigan suggesting minimal disciplinary action such as a public letter of caution. Strauch did not suggest a specific disciplinary measure for Knudsen. The court reserved its decision, acknowledging that criticism is often part of judicial roles.
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