What does 'disbarment' signify in the context of discipline for lawyers?

Disbarment signifies a permanent punishment imposed on attorneys as a disciplinary measure. When a lawyer is disbarred, they lose their license to practice law indefinitely, which means they can no longer represent clients or provide legal services. This step is generally taken in response to severe ethical violations or misconduct, reflecting the legal profession's fundamental commitment to integrity and public trust. The gravity of disbarment serves both as a punitive action against the individual attorney and as a deterrent to uphold standards within the legal community.

In contrast to disbarment, temporary suspensions allow for the possibility of reinstatement after a specified period, and reprimands or censure represent less severe forms of discipline that do not result in the loss of the ability to practice law. Understanding the seriousness of disbarment helps to emphasize the importance of ethical conduct within the legal profession.