Sanctions
While there is no automatic discipline for sanctions, most non discovery sanctions have to be reported to the State Bar.
WHEN ATTORNEY CONDUCT IS AT ISSUE
Fishkin & Slatter LLP
Legal Ethics, State Bar Defense, and Expert Witness Testimony
Contempt
There is no automatic discipline for contempt. Skilled representation can help you avoid discipline or minimize the level of discipline. but the best defense is to avoid the finding of contempt. When the judge is angry at you, you are not the best person to explain yourself. At Fishkin & Slatter LLP, we can represent you and keep an eye on State Bar ramifications at the same time.
Duties to Third Parties
California attorneys can have fiduciary duties to prospective clients, opposing parties, witnesses, or heirs of your clients. At Fishkin & Slatter LLP, we advise our clients on the nature and extent of these obligations.
Alcohol and Drug Issues
If you have a problem with alcohol or drug use, take action now! Do so for yourself as well as part of your duties to clients. The State Bar sponsored program is LAP (Lawyers Assistance Program.) Call 1-800-341-0572 for confidential information. Attorneys with disciplinary cases, who participate in LAP, may qualify for ADP (Alternative Discipline Program), which may result in a lesser level of discipline. The Other Bar is a voluntary association of attorneys and judges with substance abuse issues. It is not sponsored by the State Bar. Call 1-800-222-0767 for confidential information.
Substance abuse is a serious problem, personally and professionally. We have clients who have become sober and are willing to share their stories with you.
Criminal Prosecution
If you are convicted of any crime, you may face disciplinary charges also. At Fishkin & Slatter LLP, we encourage you to employ State Bar Counsel right after you employ criminal defense counsel. We can help with plea bargaining advice that could dramatically affect the outcome of your post conviction State Bar case.
Attorneys are required to self-report a variety of adverse actions taken against them. Failure to report is a separate offense. However, few adverse actions result in automatic sanctions. Often the court findings are not binding on the State Bar. Contact attorneys who know the legal principals.
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