Joy Behar was questioning the relationship between Casey Anthony and her attorney, Jose Baez. I found this to be quite interesting. It’s another point of interest in this ongoing trial with so many twists and turns. Joy Behar had Bethany Marshall, a psychoanalyst, and Debra Opri, an attorney, to help answer some stunning questions.
Casey and her attorney, Jose, have been perceived as having what might be described as a “flirtatious” relationship. As far back as October 2008, it was reported that Baez was warned on at least two occasions to stop hugging Casey during prison visits in which touching is prohibited. At one point they were sitting so close together that a corrections officer had to separate them. And when Casey was out on bond, she reportedly spent six hours a day at his office, including Saturdays.
Marshall, the psychoanalyst, believes that Casey may be using “sex,“ in a flirtatious manner as a way to exert her power and control in order to manipulate Baez. That’s what sociopaths do, they relate to others with power not affection.
Opri, the attorney, feels that Baez is crossing a line. He is there to advocate for her and his touching and hugging and his protectiveness of her are taking away from his position as advocate. He really needs to be more aware of his actions because he is in the public eye.
Joy mentions that there have been rumors that Baez and Casey have had an intimate relationship, but they have not been confirmed. If this were found to be true, Baez could be in trouble with the state bar association.
Other noteworthy information concerning Baez, that speaks to his character, is that apparently he was not allowed to practice law for eight years after graduating law school.
The reason? Financial irresponsibility. He was busy spending and not paying bills, with the worst offense being falling behind in his child support. The Florida Supreme Court had this to say about Baez’s overall behavior in 2000:
"a total lack of respect for the rights of others and a total lack of respect for the legal system, which is absolutely inconsistent with the character and fitness qualities required of those seeking to be afforded the highest position of trust and confidence recognized by our system of law."
He was admitted to the bar in 2005 after taking the necessary steps to redeem himself.
Very interesting, wouldn’t you say? A shady attorney for a shady client? Sounds about right to me.
