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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2002

A federal judge on Wednesday refused to disqualify a group of attorneys from a controversial farmer's discrimination case.

African-American farmers sought new representation for a class action suit the Clinton administration settled. They cited misconduct and bad practices of the Washington, D.C., law firm of Conlon, Frantz, Phelan & Pires, the lead attorneys in the case.

U.S. Judge Paul L. Friedman said the concerns did not rise to official misconduct. He also rejected a request to set aside part of the settlement.

The law firm also handles a $19 billion Native American farmers discrimination class action.

The Department of Agriculture admitted to historic discrimination problems as part of the settlement. Secretary Ann Veneman said a new office will help minority farmers.

Get the Story:
Minority Loan Office Opened by USDA (The Washington Post 9/12)

Get the Case:
Timothy Pigford v. Ann M. Veneman (9/11)

Relevant Links:
Farmers Lawyer - http://www.farmerslawyer.com

Related Stories:
Farmers protest USDA discrimination (8/23)
Class action another broken promise (8/13)
'We didn't come to use the bathroom' (7/2)
Law may hurt farmers' lawsuit (12/19)
More farmers wanted for lawsuit (11/09)
Expansion of farmer lawsuit sought (11/1)
Indian farmers hold rally (10/31)
USDA a 'very racist organization' (09/13)