where to find attorney disciplinary history

For public record discipline information for an attorney that occurred more than 10 years ago:

• Members of the public: Please send your request via email.
• Members of the media: Call the Communications Office Media Line at 850-561-5666. The office is open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Full Answer

What is the most common reason for an attorney to be disciplined?

Professional misconduct is the most common reason for attorney discipline. Lawyers can also be disciplined for conduct in their personal lives.

Do lawyers have a track record?

A lawyer's track record is a clear indicator of how good an attorney is at their job. That's why it's so important to look at your lawyer's track record before you get one for the job. However, not everyone knows how to do so. Here's how you can know your attorney's track record before you sign any retainer agreement.

What does it mean when a lawyer is disciplined?

Attorneys can be disciplined for various reasons - from failing to pay their bar dues to misappropriating client funds to gross ethical violations. Some attorneys who have been disciplined are no longer eligible to practice law.

Are Florida Bar complaints public record?

Members of the public are then able to search those historical records for information about possible disciplinary actions. So, the short answer is “yes.”

How do I find the success rate of a lawyer?

Talk to the lawyer. The easiest way to learn how many cases a lawyer wins or loses is to talk to them. ... Search PACER. If the attorney has practiced in the federal court system, search the PACER electronic records systems. ... Contact the state court.

What lawyer has won the most cases?

Gerald Leonard Spence (born January 8, 1929) is a semi-retired American trial lawyer. He is a member of the Trial Lawyer Hall of Fame. Spence has never lost a criminal case before a jury either as a prosecutor or a defense attorney, and has not lost a civil case since 1969.

What does it mean when a lawyer is reprimanded?

In professional responsibility, reprimand is a form of disciplinary action imposed after trial or formal charges that declare the conduct of a lawyer as improper but does not limit his/her right to practice.

What happens when lawyers sanctioned?

These sanctions may involve a fine for unnecessary court costs, a demand for forfeiture of an attorney's fees, and may even include jail time.

What is the difference between suspension and disbarment?

A suspension is used when there is an immediate need. It is a temporary measure; there is a 12-month limit, which can be extended for another six months. A debarment is for a specific term, but generally not longer than three years.

What is attorney misconduct in Florida?

Rule 4-8.4. Misconduct. Currentness. A lawyer shall not: (a) violate or attempt to violate the Rules of Professional Conduct, knowingly assist or induce another to do so, or do so through.

What does the Florida Bar do?

The Florida Bar's core functions are to: Regulate the practice of law in Florida; ensure the highest standards of legal professionalism in Florida; and protect the public by prosecuting unethical attorneys and preventing the unlicensed practice of law.

How do I file a complaint against a DCF worker in Florida?

Florida law requires anyone with information to report abuse directly to the Florida Abuse Hotline at 1-800-962-2873 or by using our online reporting tool .

Who regulates lawyers in Massachusetts?

"The Board of Bar Overseers was established by the Supreme Judicial Court in 1974 as an independent administrative body to investigate and evaluate complaints against attorneys." They have over 80 articles on their site about ethical issues for lawyers.

Who is responsible for discipline?

3.1 The discipline master/mistress is the leader of the school discipline team. He/She is in charge of the planning, organization, development and monitoring of matters relating to student discipline at school.

How do you know if an attorney is legit?

For the public, the best way to confirm that an attorney is licensed to practice law in a particular jurisdiction is to contact the licensing or regulatory agency in that state that grants the bar license. In most states, the licensing or regulatory agency is managed by the state bar or the state bar association.

What is considered attorney misconduct in California?

Under California law, telling only part of the truth in any court filing by an attorney is the same as telling a lie, and withholding, concealing, or omitting relevant information in court filings is the same as telling a lie. And is considered fraud on the court, according to the State Bar.

Where is the Find a Lawyer feature on the website?

On the home page you will see the Find a Lawyer feature on the top of the page.

How long does a Texas attorney have to be disciplinary?

Information that appears on each attorney’s profile includes: The website states that Texas disciplinary sanctions within the last 10 years are shown. For sanction or disciplinary information beyond 10 years , you need to contact the Office of the Chief Disciplinary Counsel: (877) 953-5555.

How much does it cost to get a copy of a disciplinary judgment in Texas?

For sanction or disciplinary information beyond 10 years, you need to contact the Office of the Chief Disciplinary Counsel: (877) 953-5555. There is a $20 charge for a certified copy of a disciplinary judgment for a Texas attorney.

How long has the Florida Bar been posting discipline documents?

The Florida Bar posts public record attorney discipline documents for the past 10 years.

How to find out if an attorney is disbarred?

Directly under the name on the lawyer’s page, you’ll see the status of the attorney, e.g., Member in Good Standing, Disbarred–Not eligible to practice, etc. You’ll also see an attorney number, contact information and year of admittance to the Bar.

What is the phone number for the Office of the Disciplinary Administrator?

If you have a question, call 785-435-8200 or email [email protected]. While we are not back in the office full time, some staff are in the office every day.

How to file a complaint against a Kansas attorney?

All complaints against Kansas-licensed attorneys must be in writing and filed with the Office of the Disciplinary Administrator. You must complete and sign a complaint form before submitting it. Any additional documents you submit cannot be returned. You should retain all original documents and keep a copy of everything you submit.