Lawyers practicing in the Eastern District of Louisiana, take note—major changes to the Rules for Lawyer Disciplinary Enforcement are on the table, and they could have serious consequences for attorneys who run afoul of professional standards.
The United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana has proposed amendments that would tighten the rules, including automatic suspensions for reciprocal discipline and the possibility of permanent disbarment in “extraordinary cases.”
What’s Changing?
Automatic Suspension for Reciprocal Discipline
If a lawyer is suspended or disbarred in any jurisdiction (state or federal), they will automatically be suspended in the Eastern District pending further disciplinary proceedings—unless they can convince the court otherwise within 28 days.
Permanent Disbarment
Under the proposed changes, in “extraordinary cases,” disbarment could mean forever. A lawyer who is permanently disbarred would never be eligible for reinstatement.
Why It Matters
These amendments raise the stakes for lawyers who face discipline elsewhere. If these rules go into effect, attorneys could find themselves immediately suspended in federal court without a separate hearing—unless they act fast and meet a high burden under the legal standards.
And for the truly egregious cases? No second chances.
Have an Opinion? Speak Now.
The court is accepting public comments until April 13, 2025. If you have thoughts on these proposed amendments, now’s your chance to weigh in. Comments must be submitted in writing via email to Clerk@laed.uscourts.gov.
Be aware: All comments will be made public, including your name.
For full details, check out the current rules on the court’s website.
Final Takeaway
These changes could have serious consequences for lawyers practicing in the Eastern District of Louisiana. If you’re a member of the bar, make sure you understand what’s at stake—and if you have something to say, now’s the time to say it.
