Becoming a Bar-certified attorney in California is a huge accomplishment that leads to a highly rewarding, yet highly demanding legal career. Lawyers and judges are prone to extreme mental stress that can exacerbate alcohol and substance use, yet many legal...
Ways to show rehabilitation to the California Bar
Only 35% of those who apply for the California Bar pass the moral character assessment due to previous criminal activity, dishonesty or indiscretions. These actions can have major impacts on an individual’s livelihood and life. In the case of a crime, the judge may...
What is State Bar defense?
Becoming a lawyer can be a difficult path, but it can feel worth it once you have achieved your goals. That said, issues can still arise. If you have received a letter from the state bar requesting information, you may need State Bar defense. Here are some things to...
3 issues that impact a “moral character” decision in California?
When seeking admission to the State Bar of California, an applicant must meet the criteria for moral character. The qualities considered for a good moral character determination include honesty, candor, fairness, trustworthiness, obedience to the law, respect for the...
How disciplinary action can affect your reputation as a lawyer
Upstanding citizens place their trust in an attorney when they need help with delicate situations. If you are subject to disciplinary board proceedings by the State Bar, potential clients might not view you as a trustworthy confidante. When you receive a letter of...
A client filed a complaint – What happens next?
Most lawyers work hard to provide excellent service to their clients, but like any customer-facing business, not every client leaves satisfied. When your client files an allegation of professional misconduct, the State Bar of California has the authority to decide if...
What kind of things get reported to the California Bar?
Practicing law comes with strict guidelines within which to operate. To become licensed, you had to demonstrate your understanding of the law and practice rules. The California Bar Association takes its obligation to ensure lawyers practicing in the state do so with...
The 5 elements of a legal negligence case
As a lawyer, you have a duty to provide a certain level of diligence while working on cases. But others may accuse you of not upholding this commitment and providing a subpar level of legal service. According to the Legal Information Institute, negligence refers to a...
What happens when a lawyer is convicted of a crime?
Any person charged and convicted of a crime must deal with potential criminal penalties. Licensed professionals convicted of a crime must also face professional fallout. Attorneys are subject to license suspension or even disbarment following a criminal conviction...
Is your love of gambling affecting your moral character?
To practice law in California, you must have good moral character. While there are many facets to having good moral character, your professional reputation may be easier to lose than you think. If you have a gambling problem, bar discipline may soon follow. Provided...