If enacted, this bill would amend section 12-353 of the Arizona Revised Statutes to enhance the provisions regarding attorney discipline matters. Currently, if an attorney prevails in a discipline matter, the State Bar of Arizona is responsible for attorney fees and court costs. The bill would add that the State Bar is also responsible for compensating the attorney for loss of earnings, which would be calculated during the entire duration of the investigation, discipline process, and any related court litigation or appeal.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision allowing attorneys who prevail in such matters to file a claim against the State Bar if they suffer damage to their reputation. This change aims to provide further recourse for attorneys who have been wrongfully subjected to disciplinary actions, thereby updating the current legal framework to better protect their interests.

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