Legal Ethics & Lawyer Discipline

For many years, Steve Scheckman has provided advice and counsel in legal ethics matters and the defense of attorney discipline matters before the Office of Disciplinary Counsel, the Attorney Disciplinary Board and the Louisiana Supreme Court.

Issues that frequently contribute to attorney violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct can include: the failure to properly maintain IOLTA trust accounts and not reconciling trust accounts on a quarterly basis; conversion or co-mingling of funds in a trust account; improper fee agreements; failure to use written fee agreements; improper handling of client files; neglect of a client or a case; conflicts of interest; improper relationships with clients; and criminal charges.

Being accused of professional misconduct is serious. When facing a complaint, it is crucial to retain experienced attorney discipline defense counsel who knows the process and can prepare a response including a defense and explain any mitigating circumstances. The process is complicated and includes an investigation by the Office of Disciplinary Counsel, and if formal charges are filed, litigation and hearings before a Hearing Committee, the Attorney Disciplinary Board, and the Louisiana Supreme Court. Failing to respond to a complaint and not cooperating with the Office of Disciplinary Counsel will place a respondent attorney in further discipline jeopardy. If found guilty of violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct, an attorney could be permanently disbarred, disbarred, suspended, or reprimanded and also face other severe consequences.

Facing an attorney discipline complaint can be disorienting and overwhelming. Steve Scheckman is here to provide support, guidance, and representation during this difficult time.