What can trigger a disciplinary action by the bar?

Disciplinary action by the bar can be triggered by either a failure to maintain client trust or involvement in fraudulent acts, making the combination of both options valid.

A failure to maintain client trust involves breaching the ethical obligation to safeguard client funds or property. Attorneys have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interest of their clients, which includes properly handling and protecting client funds, typically placed in a trust account. Mismanagement or misuse of these funds can lead to severe penalties and disciplinary measures.

Involvement in fraudulent acts, on the other hand, encompasses a range of unethical behaviors, including misrepresentation or deceit in dealings related to the practice of law. Engaging in fraudulent conduct not only violates legal ethics but also undermines public confidence in the legal profession, which is why it is treated seriously by disciplinary boards.

In contrast, negotiating favorably for a client is not inherently a trigger for disciplinary action. Attorneys are expected to advocate vigorously for their clients' interests, as long as their conduct adheres to ethical standards and the law. Therefore, the integral aspects of trust and honesty in legal practice directly relate to the potential for disciplinary action, validating the selection of the combined options.