The bill amends Section 81.075 of the Government Code to establish new procedures for handling complaints filed with the State Bar of Texas against attorneys. Key changes include the introduction of Subsections (e-1) and (e-2). Subsection (e-1) allows the supreme court to order a stay and reconsider the chief disciplinary counsel's finding of just cause after reviewing the complaint and investigation. If a stay is not ordered, Subsection (e-2) clarifies that filing a motion for stay and reconsideration does not affect the deadlines for trials or hearings, and if the supreme court does not act on the motion within 45 days, it is deemed denied.
The bill specifies that these changes will only apply to grievances filed with the State Bar of Texas on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Grievances filed before this date will continue to be governed by the existing law. This legislative update aims to streamline the complaint process and clarify the roles of the chief disciplinary counsel and the supreme court in addressing attorney grievances.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Government Code 81.075 (Government Code 81)