July 2025 Discipline
These lawyers were the subject of Louisiana Supreme Court disciplinary orders or Louisiana Attorney Discipline Board recommendations published during the month of July 2025. Louisiana Supreme Court
File Closing Checklist for Lawyers & Law Firms
Closing a client file is just as important as opening one. A clear, consistent process ensures ethical compliance, protects client confidences, and positions the firm for smooth future interactions. This …
New Client & File Opening Checklist for Lawyers & Law Firms
Opening a new client file is more than just paperwork—it’s the foundation for a successful representation. A consistent process ensures ethical compliance, efficient administration, and clear client communication from the …
Checklist for Lawyers Leaving Their Law Firm
Leaving a law firm can be one of the most significant transitions in a lawyer’s career. Whether you are moving to another firm, opening your own practice, or stepping into …
When “My Lawyer Told Me To” Isn’t Enough in Lawyer Discipline Cases
In Florida Bar v. Herman, 297 So. 3d 516 (Fla. 2020), the Florida Supreme Court addressed whether “advice of counsel” can shield a lawyer from professional discipline. See Fla. Bar v. …
Can a Lawyer Agree to a Gag Clause in a Settlement? Not If It Restricts the Right to Practice, Says Texas Ethics Opinion 708
In Ethics Opinion No. 708, published in May of 2025, the Professional Ethics Committee for the State Bar of Texas considered two increasingly common provisions in client settlement agreements. See Tex. …
Referral Fees Disguised as Admin Pay? NYSBA Says No
On February 20, 2025, the New York State Bar Association formally issued Ethics Opinion 1279, addressing whether a lawyer could lawfully pay non‑lawyers—such as friends or family—a flat fee for completing administrative tasks …
California Adopts Nation’s First Court Rule on Generative AI
On July 18, 2025, the Judicial Council of California unanimously adopted the first statewide framework in the nation governing the use of generative artificial intelligence within the judicial branch. The …
Federal Judge Withdraws Opinion Following Identification of Factual and Citation Errors
On July 23, 2025, U.S. District Judge Julien Xavier Neals of the District of New Jersey withdrew a previously issued opinion in In re CorMedix Inc. Securities Litigation, No. 2:21-cv-14020, after …
When Peremptory Challenges Cross the Ethics Line During Jury Selection
The ABA’s Formal Opinion 517, issued July 9, 2025, draws a clear line in the sand: if a lawyer uses a peremptory strike based on race, gender, or another protected characteristic—and …