Investigative Hearings before the Florida Bar
If you’ve been called for an Investigative Hearing before the Florida Board of Bar Examiners, these are some of the facts you should know.
The hearings are held throughout the year, usually on Fridays and Saturdays and can last as little as 10 minutes, or can last over a hour.
There are many reasons why the Florida Board of Bar Examiners requests an Investigative Hearing. Some of them include, prior criminal arrests, non-disclosure issues on the Bar application and/or law school application, financial issues including taxes, child support, judgments, litigation issues, and any other questionable issues on your application. There also may be other reasons the Board needs to speak to you after they have done their investigation.
Once you’ve been sent a notice to appear before the Board, there are many things to take into consideration when preparing.
You will usually receive a choice of three different hearing dates. Make sure you are well prepared before going into the hearing. Do not choose the first date to “get it out of the way.” Only choose the date that you feel you are ready for, because if you don’t do it right the first time at the Investigative Hearing it could result in a future Formal Hearing. Prepare yourself for the hearing. Make sure you have gone over your facts and issues and have prepared yourself for any questions that may come your way. Make sure you are going in with the proper attitude and professional mannerisms.
Do not play the blame game. This is very serious. When you are called in front of the Board you must take it seriously and take responsibility for your past. Do not blame others. It is a priviledge to be admitted to the bar, not a right.
Always make sure what you say on your Bar Application is the truth. You don’t want to hear from the Board, “That’s not what was on your Bar Application.”
If you have been called for an Investigative Hearing and you are an attorney from another state with discipline issues, let the Board know what you did, how it violated Florida rules, and why you want to practice in Florida.
Honesty is ALWAYS the best policy. Never lie to the Board. Remember that the Board is determining your character and whether you are fit to practice law.
Soreide Law Group wants you to know that if you’ve been called before the Florida Bar for an Investigative Hearing we will represent you at the hearing and help you navigate through the process. It can be very daunting and your future is on the line.
Soreide Law Group represents those seeking admittance to the Florida Bar, and existing lawyers, for both investigative hearings and formal hearings in front of the Florida Bar. For more information about our services please visit: www.floridabarhearing.com or call (888) 760-6552.
