Crime | Rod Blagojevich Blago's Top Lawyer to Quit 'I require clients to at least listen' By Matt Cantor Posted Jan 24, 2009 7:10 AM CST Copied Ed Genson, lead attorney for impeached Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, talks with reporters as he leaves the federal building in Chicago, Friday, Jan. 23, 2009. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast) Rod Blagojevich’s top lawyer in his criminal case is jumping ship, the Chicago Tribune reports. He told reporters as much in a statement just after a judge ruled that undercover Blago tapes could be passed to the state legislature. “I never require a client to do what I say," said Edward Genson, who’s practiced for 44 years. "But I do require them to at least listen." "I wish the governor good luck and Godspeed," he added. In response to a question about an apparent $500,000 payment he received from campaign cash, Genson said, “The answer to that is that it's none of your guys' business.” Read These Next There seems to be some friction between Trump and ballroom architect. 2 National Guard members fatally shot near White House. As the death toll rises, arrests made in Hong Kong. Police say DC shooter ambushed Guard members. Report an error