John Edwards to start law firm

Former Democratic senator and presidential candidate John Edwards is starting a law firm in North Carolina.

The law firm, started with his daughter and former business associate, will take on consumer protection issues, civil rights and discrimination lawsuits. 

{mosads}“The reason we formed this firm is because we all believe in the same thing — in standing up for the disenfranchised and those who need an equal chance,” Edwards told The New York Times. 

Edwards focused his 2008 presidential campaign on anti-poverty efforts.

Edwards has kept a low profile since he was found not guilty last year of receiving illegal campaign contributions to allegedly cover up an affair. The Justice Department said it would not retry another five counts in which the jury could not come to a conclusion. 

His ability to practice law remained in tact. 

The former 2004 Democratic vice presidential nominee told a local newspaper he has no intentions of ever running for office again. 

Edwards made a return to public life in May with reports he would hit the public speaking circuit. News of his law firm first popped up in June.