This bill proposes updates to Arizona Revised Statutes, specifically section 12-353, regarding attorney discipline matters. Under current law, if an attorney prevails in a discipline matter, the State Bar of Arizona is responsible for attorney fees and court costs. The bill adds provisions that would require the State Bar to also compensate the attorney for loss of earnings during the investigation and discipline process, as well as allow the attorney to file a claim against the State Bar if they suffer damage to their reputation.

The bill introduces new language that clarifies the responsibilities of the State Bar and expands the scope of recoverable damages for attorneys who prevail in discipline matters. Specifically, it inserts definitions for loss of earnings and the conditions under which an attorney can claim damages for reputational harm, while maintaining the existing framework regarding attorney fees and court costs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 12-353
Senate Engrossed Version: 12-353