Strong objections have been raised by groups representing criminal lawyers as well as by editorial writers and columnists.

Mr. Harris said he was representing other lawyers at the firm but declined to say whom.

Most important, however, the proposals have drawn strong opposition from, among others, groups representing Cuban-American, black and female lawyers.

Offices of professional unions -those representing physicians, dentists, lawyers and others - were closed.

Since 2000, Baker's largest campaign contributors have represented the finance, insurance and real estate, lawyers and lobbying and health industries.

In December 1798, trade groups representing lawyers, merchants, and bankers all came out against the idea.

Realtors support the bill, but groups representing lawyers oppose it.

The suit challenging the regulations was brought by a coalition representing lawyers, doctors and consumers.

The board of governors for the bar association representing lawyers in the judge's district continues to call for Judge Gilbert's resignation.

The association's Family Law Section, which represents matrimonial lawyers, has continued to lobby heavily on the issue.