The Case of Thomas M. Green, An Indiana Attorney
In the legal profession, a lawyer’s responsibility extends beyond the courtroom; it includes a duty to cooperate with the very bodies that regulate their conduct. The disciplinary case of Indiana attorney Thomas M. Green serves as a powerful reminder of this fundamental principle. His recent indefinite suspension from the practice of law was not the […]
How Attorney James Leone Lost His License in Three Jurisdictions
The legal profession is built on a framework of ethical rules designed to protect the public and maintain the integrity of the justice system. For attorneys licensed in multiple states, this framework is especially robust, as disciplinary action in one jurisdiction can have severe, domino-like consequences in others. The case of James Russell Leone provides […]
The Unprecedented Fall of Judge Jeffrey Ferguson
The disciplinary case of former Orange County Superior Court Judge Jeffrey Ferguson is unlike any other. While most judicial misconduct cases involve ethical breaches or dereliction of duty, Ferguson’s story is tied to a criminal conviction for murder. This unprecedented event marks a dark and tragic chapter in California’s judicial history, highlighting the severe consequences […]
Attorney Beau White’s Suspension and the Rigors of Reinstatement
The legal profession demands more than just legal knowledge; it requires unwavering diligence and a commitment to serving clients with promptness and care. For Indiana attorney Beau White, a failure to uphold these core duties led to a lengthy suspension from the practice of law by the Indiana Supreme Court. His case serves as a […]
Patent Attorney Michael Ries Publicly Reprimanded by USPTO
For attorneys, maintaining a license to practice law requires more than just passing an exam. It demands a steadfast commitment to professional ethics and competence. The case of Michael John Ries, a registered patent attorney, demonstrates how a failure to meet these standards in one jurisdiction can have far-reaching consequences, extending to a national level […]
The Case of Judge Derek W. Hunt
The courtroom is meant to be a place of dignity, impartiality, and due process. A judge, in particular, is expected to embody these principles. The disciplinary case of former Orange County Superior Court Judge Derek W. Hunt is a sobering reminder of what happens when a judge’s personal temperament and impatience get in the way […]
A Breach of Trust: The Disbarment of Attorney Valerie Franklin for Stealing Client Funds
The foundation of the legal profession is built on trust. Clients hand over their most sensitive matters and often, their finances, believing their attorney will act in their best interest. When that trust is fundamentally betrayed, the consequences are severe and serve as a warning to all. The case of Valerie Pope Franklin, an Illinois […]
The Disgraceful End of a 35-Year Career: The Case of Judge Howard H. Shore
The career of retired San Diego County Judge Howard H. Shore came to a controversial end after two separate disciplinary actions by the California Commission on Judicial Performance (CJP). The case serves as a striking example of how judicial misconduct both on and off the bench can lead to public censure and a ruined legacy, […]
From Director to Disbarred: The Fall of Attorney Mendel Zilberberg
An attorney’s license is a privilege that comes with a fundamental duty to uphold the law, not to break it. The disciplinary case of Mendel Zilberberg is a powerful, multi-state example of what happens when a federal felony conviction shatters that trust. His case demonstrates the swift and severe consequences for lawyers who use their […]
The Cautionary Tale of Dale Halling: A Lawyer’s Disbarment for Betraying Trust
When you hire a lawyer, you are entrusting them with your most critical legal affairs and, often, your financial security. The case of Dale Halling is a stark reminder of what happens when that trust is completely broken. A lawyer licensed in both Illinois and Colorado, Halling was ultimately disbarred in both states for a […]