The proposed bill would amend section 12-353 of the Arizona Revised Statutes to enhance the provisions 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 introduces new language that specifies the inclusion of "loss of earnings" as a recoverable cost, calculated during the entire duration of the investigation, discipline process, and any related court litigation or appeal.

Additionally, the bill allows attorneys who prevail in such matters to file a claim against the State Bar if they have suffered damage to their reputation. This insertion aims to provide further recourse for attorneys who have been wrongfully subjected to disciplinary actions, thereby updating the current statutes to reflect these new rights and responsibilities.

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