Office of Chief Disciplinary Counsel

Representing Attorneys in Disciplinary Proceeding

 

Attorneys in Texas face a myriad of ethical requirements. These rules are always complex, often subjective and frequently open to interpretation. Moreover, conscientious attorneys all too frequently face allegations from perturbed or dissatisfied clients who file grievances with the Office of Chief Disciplinary Counsel as a means of retaliation. And unique features of Texas law, such as barratry, can subject attorneys in Houston to criminal sanctions for marketing or pursuing clients too aggressively. With so many challenges, now more than ever, legal professionals in Texas need an ally. At Bob Bennett & Associates, we sympathize with the ethical pitfalls attorneys face and work aggressively to defend our clients before the Office of Chief Disciplinary Counsel, Texas courts or any other forum where their reputations and livelihoods come under fire.

 

Defending Grievances for Texas Attorneys

 

While the Board of Law Examiners has primary responsibility for investigating and approving new applicants to the bar, the Office of Chief Disciplinary Counsel is responsible for policing existing members. To accomplish this goal, the Office employs a disciplinary procedure designed to solicit and investigate allegations of unethical conduct by lawyers. While this procedure endeavors to root out frivolous claims at an early stage, claims with merit are deemed to be true unless proven otherwise, effectively shifting the burden of proof to the accused attorney.

For this reason and others, putting forth a strong defense with the help of an experienced professional license defense attorney is crucial. For the last decade, Attorney Bob Bennett has focused his practice on defending professionals — including doctors and lawyers — from grievances brought by clients, colleagues and others. He routinely represents clients before the Office of Chief Disciplinary Counsel as well as the Texas Medical Board.

 

Fighting Texas Barratry Charges

 

Barratry is the overly aggressive recruitment of clients or fomenting litigation for financial gain. While abolished in most other states, here in Texas, barratry is still a serious crime and a violation of the ethical rules. As such, it carries not only civil and criminal penalties but also the potential for professional discipline. For the last ten years, Bob Bennett has been on the cutting edge of barratry defense and has written numerous articles on the subject. He understands the subjective nature of this unique criminal statute and works to defend clients from barratry charges in both Texas courts and disciplinary hearings.

 

Contact a Houston Law Firm That Defends Legal Professionals

 

Attorney Bob Bennett and his associates understand the special issues that legal professionals face while under the scrutiny of disciplinary proceedings. With nearly 40 years of experience in legal practice, we bring our knowledge and skills to bear defending professionals against allegations of unethical behavior that threaten their livelihoods and reputations. We offer free initial consultations, flexible hours and a convenient office location in the historic district of Downtown Houston with ready access to parking and public transportation. Contact our office at 713.225.6000 or online to schedule an appointment to discuss your licensure issue with a compassionate and trustworthy attorney.

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