A Trusted Advocate in Pennsylvania’s Attorney and Judicial Disciplinary System
Few moments in a lawyer’s or judge’s career are more unsettling than receiving a letter from the Office of Disciplinary Counsel (ODC) or the Judicial Conduct Board (JCB). These matters carry immense personal, professional, and reputational consequences — and they demand representation by someone who understands the system, the stakes, and the path forward.
James Law, LLC represents attorneys and judges facing ethical complaints, disciplinary investigations, formal charges, and sanctions.
We also provide prospective ethics advice to lawyers and judges who seek guidance before a problem becomes a complaint.
With nearly 14 years of experience in serious criminal and appellate matters, and with mentorship from a colleague who has practiced disciplinary law for more than four decades, Attorney Ryan H. James has developed a reputation for clear judgment, principled advocacy, and a steady hand in an area of law where subtle missteps can have profound consequences.
These matters require discretion, preparation, and perspective.
We bring all three.
Awards
Representing Lawyers in the Disciplinary System
The disciplinary process for attorneys in Pennsylvania is not intuitive. It is governed by its own unique procedural rules and expectations.
We represent lawyers in matters involving:
- ODC investigations (initial inquiries, DB-7 requests, and investigative subpoenas)
- Responses to complaints filed by clients, courts, opposing counsel, or third parties
- Petitions for discipline and formal charges
- Disciplinary hearings before Hearing Committees and the Disciplinary Board
- Mitigation and sanction advocacy
- Reinstatement petitions
- Ethics advisory work for attorneys confronting potential conflicts or misconduct allegations
Many lawyers make the mistake of handling early stages of the disciplinary process on their own — particularly filing their own Statements of Position.
The tone, completeness, and candor of those responses often shape the entire trajectory of the case.
Our role begins with understanding:
- the facts underlying the complaint
- the lawyer’s professional history
- the applicable Rules of Professional Conduct
- what ODC is actually investigating (which is not always obvious)
We then craft responses and strategies that reflect sound judgment, honesty, and a full understanding of the disciplinary landscape.
Judicial Discipline and Representation Before the Judicial Conduct Board and the Court of Judicial Discipline
For judicial officers, the stakes are equally as high.
The Judicial Conduct Board (JCB) investigates:
- alleged violations of the Code of Judicial Conduct,
- mishandling of courtroom responsibilities,
- ex parte conduct,
- improper use of judicial office,
- allegations of bias or misconduct,
and - administrative or ethical missteps that fall short of misconduct but still warrant review.
Representation of judicial officers requires:
- discretion,
- sensitivity to public perception,
- understanding of judicial ethics,
- and an ability to manage investigations that reach beyond the courtroom.
We work closely with judicial officers to prepare responses, gather necessary documentation, and address issues in a manner that protects both their office and their reputation.
Understanding What Is at Stake
Disciplinary investigations affect far more than a license.
They touch:
- a lawyer’s livelihood,
- professional relationships,
- standing in the legal community,
- eligibility for court-appointed work and service,
- judicial aspirations, and
- public reputation.
They also carry collateral risks, including:
- criminal exposure in certain matters,
- malpractice implications,
- insurance reporting, and
- mandatory disclosures in future employment or licensing contexts.
Our job is to see the full landscape — not just the complaint — and guide clients with a clear view of the risks and the opportunities for resolution.
A Philosophy of Discretion, Honesty, and Strategic Resolution
Disciplinary defense is not about bluster. It is about judgment and credibility.
We approach these cases with:
Complaints and investigations are handled privately, professionally, and with sensitivity to reputational concerns.
The disciplinary system values honesty, responsibility, and insight. We help clients present responses that acknowledge the truth without conceding more than necessary.
Our firm takes time to understand the full picture of a lawyer’s or judge’s life, career, workload, and stressors — and how those factors relate to allegations.
Some matters require full contest on the merits. Others require measured, thoughtful resolution. Knowing which path to take is essential.
Ethics Advice and Preventative Counseling
We regularly provide prospective ethics advice to attorneys who seek guidance before making decisions that could trigger future complaints.
Issues include:
- conflicts of interest,
- client confidentiality concerns,
- duties to former clients,
- navigating dual representation,
- managing difficult clients,
- obligations when withdrawing from representation,
- dealing with entrusted funds and IOLTA requirements,
- communication and diligence duties under the Rules of Professional Conduct
Preventing a disciplinary complaint is always the better outcome.
We offer confidential counsel to help lawyers avoid problems before they begin.
Why Lawyers and Judges Choose James Law, LLC
Our background in criminal-defense and appellate litigation brings a depth of judgment that many disciplinary practitioners simply do not possess.
Our firm benefits from ongoing collaboration with an attorney who has practiced in this field for more than 45 years, strengthening the insight and strategy we bring to each case.
Disciplinary matters cannot be managed at volume. They require time, precision, and thoughtful strategy — which is exactly how we structure our practice.
Many disciplinary cases involve parallel concerns: potential criminal exposure or civil-liability implications. We help clients navigate all of these dimensions in view of our varied experiences handling criminal and civil matters.
Disciplinary submissions require clarity, credibility, and disciplined writing. Our appellate practice directly informs the preparation of persuasive, well-reasoned responses.
Our services in this area more specifically involve the following:
For Attorneys:
- General ethics consulting and advising on the Rules of Professional Conduct.
- Responding to inquiries and investigations by the Office of Disciplinary Counsel (i.e. DB-7 letters) and the Client Security Fund.
- Litigation defense and representation in formal proceedings before the Disciplinary Board and its Hearing Committees.
- Appeals and/or Petitions for Review to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court from adverse disciplinary dispositions and recommendations.
For Judges:
- General ethics consulting and advice on the Code of Judicial Conduct, including advice for judicial candidates on compliance with the Code.
- Assisting with responses to informal inquires of the Judicial Conduct Board, and responding to Notices of Formal Investigation (NOFI) letters.
- Litigation defense and representation before the Court of Judicial Discipline.
- Appeals to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court from adverse disciplinary dispositions.
For Law Students:
- General advice and consulting pertaining to law-school and bar-examination applications and Character and Fitness inquiries by the Board of Law Examiners.
- Guidance and representation in response to denials of a Certificate of Admission by the Board of Law Examiners, as well as interacting with the Board’s Lead Character and Fitness Investigator.
- Representation in Character and Fitness Hearings before the Board of Law Examiners.
If you’re a lawyer, judge, or law student facing an ethical dilemma or investigation, contact our firm.
We’re sensitive to the stress and anxiety often associated with these matters, and we have the experience to competently and confidentially guide you through the process with an aim to a speedy and fair resolution.
If You Are Facing a Disciplinary Inquiry, Complaint, or Ethics Issue
These matters require judgment, discretion, and an advocate who understands what is truly at stake. To discuss your case, fill out the form or call 412-896-1349.
Contact James Law, LLC: representation for attorneys and judges in disciplinary investigations, charges, and ethics counseling throughout Pennsylvania.
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