January 2026 Discipline
These lawyers were the subject of Louisiana Supreme Court disciplinary orders or Louisiana Attorney Disciplinary Board recommendations published during the month of January 2026. Louisiana Supreme Court Daniel B. Barzare …
When Consensual Still Means Conflict
In June 2025, the Louisiana Supreme Court accepted a joint petition for consent discipline from Jan Peter Christiansen, who admitted to engaging in a consensual sexual relationship with a current client. …
No Clean Slate for Disciplined Lawyers
On October 23, 2025, the California Supreme Court rejected a State Bar proposal that would have granted lawyers a one-time, automatic expungement of their public disciplinary records after eight years with …
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. …
Big Changes Ahead: Eastern District of Louisiana Proposes Tougher Lawyer Discipline Rules
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 …
The Biggest Ethical Risks for Louisiana Lawyers—and How to Stay Out of Trouble
Navigating Ethical Risks: Insights from 2024 Sanctions, Complaints, and Rule Violations As Louisiana’s lawyer discipline landscape continues to evolve, 2024 stands out as a year of critical lessons for legal …
The Ethics Tightrope Every Lawyer Walks and How to Stay on It
Navigating the Ethical Tightrope: Trends in Lawyer Misconduct and Discipline In a profession built on trust, ethical standards, and the unwavering commitment to serve clients, lawyers carry significant responsibilities—and with …
Ignoring the ODC Won’t Save You—It Might Sink You
In the recent disciplinary matter In re: Sonnier, 395 So. 3d 850 (La. 10/25/24), the Louisiana Supreme Court highlighted an important clarification regarding Rule 8.1(c) of the Louisiana Rules of …
When Slow Justice Softens the Blow
Delays in Disciplinary Proceedings as a Mitigating Factor in Attorney Discipline The Louisiana Supreme Court’s recent decision in In re: Magee, 23-0364 (La. 1/19/24), underscores the impact of delays in …
The Louisiana Supreme Court’s Take on Rule 8.4(d): Intent vs. Impact
The Louisiana Supreme Court’s decision in In re Trina Trinhthi Chu offers an important clarification of Rule 8.4(d) of the Louisiana Rules of Professional Conduct. See In re Trina Chu, …