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...
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...
When are you obligated to report ethical violations?
Like most legal professionals in California, you likely go to great lengths to ensure that your business-related conduct does not warrant scrutiny from state bar officials. The perception is that focusing on your own actions essentially guarantees that you avoid the...
Conflict of interest cases explained
When dealing with the issue of your standing with the state bar association, you no doubt will want to know the exact parameters in which legal authorities expect you to operate. As many of our past clients here at The Law Office of Zachary D. Weschler, APC can attest...