This section contains the nature of the case and procedural background.

P graduated from law school at Stanford University in 1967. There is not now and never has been a single mark against her moral character. One of the questions on her application to admission to the Bar called on her to reveal all organizations with which she had been associated since she reached 16 years of age. In addition, she was asked to state whether she had ever been a member of the Communist Party or any organization 'that advocates overthrow of the United States Government by force or violence.' When she refused to answer this question, the Committee declined to process her application further or recommend her admission to the bar. The Arizona Supreme Court then denied her petition for an order to the Committee to show cause why she should not be admitted to practice law. The Supreme Court granted certiorari.

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