The Perils of Dual Representation: Lessons from a Public Censure
In June 2025, the New Jersey Supreme Court publicly censured attorney Gwyneth K. Murray-Nolan for engaging in a non-waivable concurrent conflict of interest during a property dispute. The case involved representing both an LLC and its individual members—whose interests were directly at odds—without proper withdrawal or client consent. The matter also included a misrepresentation to […]
New Jersey Attorney Censured for Public Office Misconduct
The New Jersey Supreme Court’s disciplinary action against attorney Clifford R. Lundin provides a compelling look into the serious consequences of ethical misconduct. In a 2020 decision (In re Clifford R. Lundin, 243 N.J. 509), Lundin was censured for a series of violations, including using his public office for private gain, making misrepresentations to his […]
From Suspension to Disbarment, A Cautionary Tale in Legal Ethics
In March 2025, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court disbarred attorney Alex R. Hess for repeated neglect of client matters, misrepresentation, and practicing law while suspended. Despite prior discipline, including an 18-month suspension, Hess continued to accept retainers, fail to perform promised work, mislead clients and courts, and withhold unearned fees. The case underscores the profession’s […]
Lessons in Legal Ethics from a Landmark Immigration Misconduct Case
A recent Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court decision has underscored the legal profession’s zero-tolerance stance on exploiting vulnerable clients. Following a pattern of deceptive immigration practices that targeted non-English-speaking immigrants, the court imposed the ultimate sanction disbarment, sending a strong message on the importance of honesty, transparency, and client protection in legal practice.” In the […]
Disbarred for Deceit: The Hayes Case and the Limits of Legal Strategy
When the legal system is manipulated from within, the consequences are severe. Such was the case with Massachusetts attorney James Hayes, who was disbarred after orchestrating a scheme to help his client hide lottery winnings to avoid paying child support. Beyond the fraud, Hayes also misused client funds, disobeyed court orders, and attempted to silence […]
Not Above the Law: When Attorneys Face Discipline
In the legal profession, ethical rules aren’t just guidelines; they’re the foundation of public trust and professional integrity. When attorneys neglect their duties, mismanage client funds, or fail to communicate with those they represent, the consequences can be career-ending. This post examines two recent disciplinary cases that highlight how repeated misconduct, especially involving client trust […]
Negligent Misappropriation in New Jersey: Lessons from the Nussey Disciplinary Case
Managing client funds is one of the most sensitive responsibilities in legal practice. When mishandled whether through negligence or intent it can lead to serious disciplinary consequences. The case of New Jersey attorney David Ryan Nussey offers a cautionary example of how poor recordkeeping, escrow account errors, and repeated ethics violations can escalate into censure […]
Who’s Watching The Lawyers? Ethics Breaches Rock New Jersey Legal Community.
The legal profession demands not only competence in the courtroom but also integrity in daily life. Lawyers are expected to uphold the law both in their professional duties and personal conduct. When those standards are breached, even outside the scope of legal practice, disciplinary action can follow. Edward Glen Johnson, DRB October 23, 2024, Supreme Court: January 14, 2025 […]
Missteps And Misconduct: Connecticut’s Latest Ethics Cases
Trust broken, Ethics Violated. Licenses lost. These are the lawyers making headlines in Connecticut. Office of Chief Disciplinary Counsel v. Welsely S. Spears In November 2024, the Connecticut Chief Disciplinary Counsel filed a presentment, alleging that Spears sent multiple late-night text messages to his female client in a child custody case. The texts included […]
When Ethics Cross The Line: Who’s Getting Suspended/Disbarred in Connecticut?
From misusing client trust funds to breaching court orders, several Connecticut attorneys are now facing serious disciplinary consequences, including suspension and disbarment. Recent cases reveal a consistent theme: when lawyers break the rules that protect clients and the integrity of the profession, the courts don’t hesitate to act. In this week’s roundup, we highlight key […]