Investigative Hearings before the Florida Bar Examiners
A law student who feels they might be called for an investigative hearing should file his or her application for admission to the Bar as soon as possible. The numbers of applicants who are being called for hearings is increasing. Remember, third-year students will have their Bar admission delayed if these steps have to be taken after taking the Bar Exam.
If you receive a letter requesting appearance at an investigative hearing, respond immediately to request the time and venue of the hearing, you may also at this time choose to consult with counsel.
Remember, your responses on the application for admission to your law school must conform with those on your application for admission to the Bar, and both must conform to what the Board of Bar Examiners will discover in their investigative process.
Some of the typical problem areas include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Failure to report any academic probation/suspension at another institution
- Failure to report disciplinary measures taken at another institution, including, but not limited to any dorm warnings, sanctions imposed such as requirements to take a course, pay a fine, write a paper, etc.
- Failure to report “minor” events such as minor in possession, underage drinking, open container violations, etc.
- Failure to report traffic offenses where the actual paid fine was in excess of $200
- Failure to report incidents that occurred after your original law school application was filed
- Failure to report incidents that occurred in law school, including, but not limited to stadium events and any of the above that may have occurred in law school.
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 or to speak to an attorney please visit: www.floridabarhearing.com or call (888) 760-6552.