As an attorney, you must follow a strict code of ethical and professional behavior. The American Bar Association has conduct expectations and violations of those expectations can lead to punishment by the Bar Association and the potential loss of your license to...
What are a lawyer’s duties to his or her clients?
When clients retain your legal services, they have certain expectations about the quality of the work you will provide. Although you may not be able to guarantee certain case outcomes, you may commit to providing a certain level of diligence and thoroughness on every...
Does student loan debt impact your bar admission?
The California State Bar admission has standards it holds its members to. One factor they consider is your debt, especially those you may have paid late. If you have become delinquent in paying student loans, you may wonder if it will keep you from gaining your bar...
What are demonstrations of good character?
The bar exam has a section involving the applicant's fitness and character. If you have a criminal record, then you may worry that this will potentially impact your exam results and perhaps even get in your way of receiving your license. The bar association uses this...
Can debt or bankruptcy affect moral character determinations?
Before the State Bar of California allows you to practice law, it assesses your character to determine whether it considers you to be someone of “good moral character.” There are many different actions or convictions that may call your character into question. If you...
Can substance abuse get you in trouble with the state bar?
Finding out you are the subject of an investigation by the State Bar of California may have you feeling anxious and uneasy and with good reason. The state bar has the ability to prevent you from practicing law if it feels you have behaved in a manner that calls your...
Will civil disobedience impact moral character determination?
Your commitment to representing people who face criminal charges or civil litigation is probably a major reason why you are working towards a license to practice law. Perhaps in your younger years, your principles led you to engage in an act of civil disobedience....
Are license actions common?
Facing issues with your professional license can put your whole career in jeopardy. While you may try to adhere to all rules and avoid any potential issues, you may still worry that a license action could happen to you. The State Bar of California explains actions...
What does an investigation into misconduct entail?
Facing accusations of misconduct in California is a serious situation considering it could jeopardize your career. The outcome of an investigation could determine whether or not you retain the right to practice law. Knowing what an investigation into misconduct...
Answering to allegations of conflicts of interest
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...