Protecting Clients from Attorneys Who Break Professional Rules
Lawyers in New York are bound by strict ethical rules under the Rules of Professional Conduct. These rules exist to protect clients, maintain trust in the justice system, and ensure attorneys act with honesty and integrity. When a lawyer commits ethics violations, clients may suffer financial losses, damaged cases, and betrayal of trust.
At The C. Paul Law Firm P.C., we represent clients across [City] and New York who were harmed by attorneys who violated professional ethics. If your lawyer crossed ethical lines and caused you harm, we can help you pursue justice through a legal malpractice claim.
Call today for a free consultation: (212) 551-PAUL
What Are Legal Ethics Violations?
Ethics violations occur when an attorney breaks professional rules such as:
- Acting dishonestly or deceitfully
- Mishandling client funds
- Representing conflicting interests
- Failing to communicate or act diligently
- Using client information for personal gain
Some violations may result in disciplinary action by the state bar, but if you were harmed financially or legally, you may also have the right to sue for malpractice.
Common Examples of Ethics Violations
| Type of Violation | Example | Legal Impact |
| Conflict of Interest | Representing both sides in a dispute | Breach of loyalty, compromised case |
| Misuse of Funds | Taking client settlement money | Financial loss, theft |
| Dishonesty | Lying about case status or deadlines | Client misled, rights lost |
| Breach of Confidentiality | Sharing client information without consent | Loss of privacy, weakened case |
| Failure to Act Diligently | Ignoring deadlines or court orders | Case dismissed, sanctions imposed |
Proving Legal Malpractice in Ethics Violations
To bring a malpractice claim, clients generally must show:
- Attorney-Client Relationship – The lawyer was formally retained.
- Breach of Duty – The attorney violated professional ethics.
- Causation – The violation harmed your case or finances.
- Damages – You suffered measurable losses.
Damages for Victims of Ethics Violations
If your lawyer committed an ethics violation that harmed you, you may recover damages for:
- Financial losses from misused funds
- Value of lost lawsuits or settlements
- Emotional distress from betrayal of trust
- Costs of hiring new counsel
- Legal fees wasted on negligent representation
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a bar complaint and malpractice?
A bar complaint may discipline the lawyer, but malpractice claims let you recover damages.
Can I sue if my lawyer stole from me?
Yes. Theft or misuse of client funds is both an ethics violation and malpractice.
What if my lawyer represented both me and the other side?
That is a conflict of interest and often malpractice if it harmed your case.
How long do I have to sue for malpractice in New York?
Generally 3 years from the violation or discovery of the harm.
Serving [City] and the Greater New York Area
We represent clients harmed by legal ethics violations in [City], Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and across New York.