Most people in California find themselves in legal trouble due to an unfamiliarity with local laws. Thus, you (as an attorney or law student) may assume that avoiding such issues (including those regarding ethical legal practice in particular) might be easy. Such is...
Having a winning chance at the state bar exam
Law students preparing for the state bar examination in California can benefit from researching useful strategies. Their familiarity with the testing requirements can also help them feel more confident and prepared. For students that do not pass the test the first...
How to maintain California state bar licensure
Many professions require maintaining some kind of professional licensure. The practice of law is no exception. The State Bar of California has stringent measures in place to make sure that California attorneys remain up to date with their legal knowledge and skills....
Three mistakes to avoid during a license defense
When a professional finds themselves in a position where their professional license is at risk, every action they take can impact their defense outcome. When years of education, experience-building, and networking are on the line, you want to be sure you are avoiding...
Understanding a state bar investigation
Attorneys know the ins and outs of the law. Unfortunately, however, there may be a time in their careers when they face a state bar investigation, which typically occurs if there is a complaint filed by a current or former client. Understanding how the investigation...
Which slip-ups often lead to ethics complains?
Recently, you heard of a lawyer friend who received an ethics complaint. You do not know all the details, but you know you want to avoid something similar happening to you. The American Bar Association breaks down common blunders that lead to complaints. Learn how to...
The State Bar Act and your license
Whether you are a new attorney seeking a State Bar license or face the risk of losing your existing license due to allegations of attorney misconduct, review the unique facets of your circumstances and safeguard your ability to practice law. There are many issues to...
What is the importance of the professional rules of conduct?
Often, when you need to defend yourself to the state bar, it is due to a suspected violation of the professional rules of conduct. These rules apply to all attorneys in the state and help to dictate how you should behave to live up to the expectations in place for...
How Does The State Bar Evaluate Complaints?
Given the highly emotional nature of the situations that a lawyer's clients find themselves in, it's not unusual for a client to turn their pain and suffering into resentment towards their counsel. Most attorneys will have to respond to a Bar complaint at some time in...
Be conscious of unconscionable fees
The Model Rules of Professional Conduct, followed by most states, hold that lawyers should refrain from charging their clients “unreasonable” fees. However, as you well know, California goes its own way when it comes to professional conduct rules. Rule 1.5 of the...