Disbarment
Jack Thompson, the Florida lawyer noted for his activism against video games, rap music, and Howard Stern was permanently disbarred for various charges of misconduct. The action was the result of several grievances claiming that Thompson had made defamatory, false statements and attempted to humiliate, embarrass, harass or intimidate his opponents. The order was made on September 25, 2008, effective October 25. However, Thompson attempted to appeal to the higher courts in order to avoid the penalty actually taking effect. Neither the US District court, nor the US Supreme Court would hear his appeal, rendering the judgment of the Florida Supreme Court final.
Andy Thompson (Canadian politician)
The resulting furore led to Thompson being expelled from the Liberal caucus on November 19, 1997. On December 12, 1997, Senator Colin Kenny moved that he be commanded to appear before Senate to explain his absence. On December 16 they voted in favour of the Kenny motion. A subcommittee reported on February 19 recommending that Thompson be found in contempt and that he be suspended for the remainder of the session. The Senate voted to strip him of his privileges and other perks. Later they found Thompson in contempt of the upper chamber for not complying with orders to return to Ottawa to explain his attendance record, resulting in the suspension of his salary and tax-free expense allowance. In December 1997, Thompson lost his Senate office and other privileges. Some Senators disagreed with the suspension, arguing that it was too lenient and that he should have been expelled from the chamber instead. He resigned on March 23, 1998, 20 months ahead of his scheduled retirement but was still able to collect a pension.