Attorney/Ovarian Cancer Survivor gets probation and is suspended for Contempt for refusing to provide documentation from her doctor.
She contended that her tardiness was largely the product of medical issues stemming from ovarian cancer; the "contempt," she said, was only the typical back-and-forth between an attorney and a judge. She was guilty only of "disagreeing with a judge."
Pollack called herself "a whistle-blower who defended whistle-blowers," who was now the subject of a broad, illegal retaliatory scheme.
"The court proceeding today could only be described as criminal," Pollack said. "Am I not a whistle-blower, judge? Am I not a whistle-blower?"
"You may be the world's best whistle-blower," Ross answered, "but it isn't relevant."
The judge ordered two years' probation and a 45-day suspension, but declined to fine Pollack.
Kellman could not be reached for comment.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica Ryan represented the prosecution. She declined to comment.
Asked outside the courtroom if she intended to appeal, Pollack answered, "Yes, absolutely -- the entire thing."
Ruth was diagnosed in 2003 with Ovarian Cancer. She suffers from lymphedema in both legs and feet which from time to time requires that she rest and elevate her legs to recover. Ruth is a civil rights attorney and have been a trial lawyer for 25 years.
Ruth has had a number of male judges demand that she supply them with a "note" from her doctor explaining why she need a day of rest during a multi week trial, an adjournment of a conference due to the sudden swelling of her legs and feet, etc.
Ruth has had her primary care doctor take time from her busy schedule to prepare such letters through the years.
Sadly, her word as an attorney and officer of the court is not good enough.
Ruth refused one judge, insulted and appalled at the cruelty of this requirement. She decided to take a stand so that others like her would be treated with the respect they are due.
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