
In a recent public statement, the Tennessee Supreme Court took a stand against accusations made by the Department of Justice (DOJ) involving the Tennessee Board of Law Examiners (TBLE) and the Tennessee Lawyers Assistance Program (TLAP). The DOJ had pointed out that both the TBLE and TLAP were allegedly discriminating against two bar applicants based on substance use or mental health disorders, a potential violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This claim placed the state's legal gatekeepers in an unforgiving spotlight.
The Tennessee Supreme Court remains steadfast in its rebuttal, stating that, "The Court strongly disagrees with DOJ’s assertion that either TBLE or TLAP discriminated against the applicants based on health status or disability," according to a recent press release. The statement comes amid continued scrutiny over systemic hurdles faced by prospective legal practitioners with disabilities or health issues. It outlines that both TBLE and TLAP follow rigorous, "well-established administrative processes that are designed to avoid discrimination against any applicant."
Despite the DOJ's findings, the Tennessee Supreme Court's response signals a commitment to equitable treatment within its jurisdictions, reaffirming a long-standing pledge. "The Court, TBLE, and TLAP have been and remain committed to treating persons with disabilities, including bar applicants with disabilities, with dignity and respect, and in compliance with all legal rights afforded to such applicants," the statement asserted. This stance reflects the intention to adhere to ADA guidelines while possibly suggesting an incongruence between the Court's self-assessment and the Justice Department's observations, as per the Tennessee Supreme Court press release.