New York Ethics Lawyer | Award-Winning

These rules and expectations can get extremely complex. Most lawyers take great comfort in being able to rely on outside advice from an ethics attorney in New York when navigating the ever-present ethical challenges that go hand-in-hand with the practice of law.

Ethical dilemmas can be a stressful area for most lawyers—absent trusted legal ethics counsel.

In high pressure day-to-day legal practice, some ethical red flags are not always easy to discern and can too easily be overlooked. You need an outside perspective from an ethics lawyer to better understand what your options are and how various obligations apply to the specific situation. In the practice of law, it’s not always easy to find approachable and knowledgeable guidance in matters relating to ethics and professional responsibility. Schedule your consultation.

My Legal Ethics Practice Is Based On A Simple Philosophy:
Prevention and Mitigation Are Powerful Tools

Having a New York ethics lawyer on your side is the right choice. If you’ve ever had a minor issue spiral into a major one, you understand the value of prevention and mitigation. No matter what your issue is, smart proactive choices almost always save time and money. My legal ethics philosophy also includes the following:

My approach in legal ethics—a field known for rigidity—is to keep an open mind. I prefer to think through your entire situation, looking for possibly better options than what is immediately evident.

Taking a creative and proactive approach in managing risk. This is often done by scrupulously executing a set strategic plan with your New York ethics lawyer. In many matters of ethics, how you handle a challenging situation can have a dramatic influence on the outcome.

Terrific lawyer and person

Mr. Lewis has handled the New York legal ethics matter I had entrusted him with to my full satisfaction. He provided candid, effective advice throughout the course of representation. I greatly enjoyed working with him, and recommend Mr. Lewis’ services without reservation to attorneys (or those seeking to become attorneys) facing any legal ethics issue in New York.

An excellent lawyer who practices in the ethics and professional responsibility arena… He has very good judgment and excellent knowledge in the area.

A fine lawyer, with very good judgment and excellent knowledge in the legal ethics and professional responsibility field.

Exceptional judgment, deep experience. I trust him with the most important and sensitive matters.

Experienced lawyer with highly impressive credentials. Highest standards of integrity.

Recognized expert in his field of legal ethics and professional responsibility

Mr. Lewis was was recommended to me by a good attorney friend who had the unfortunate circumstance of requiring Mr. Lewis’ assistance in a long and expensive ethics related litigation. While I have never had a situation quite so dire, I do — with regularity — face situations where ethics guidance is necessary and there is just no substitute for Mr. Lewis’ sage counsel. I’ve relied on Mr. Lewis’ counsel on many occasions and plan to continue to do so for so long as I am in the practice of law.

Powerhouse ethics counsel and very thoughtful; my go-to source for the thorny questions that come up all the time.

David is a knowledgeable, dedicated, and effective attorney. Sensitive to the client’s needs in sometimes delicate matters. Will recommend him without hesitation.

Throughout The State Of New York

You’re a lawyer or law firm that may have strayed from the rules. This has put your career and business at risk. You need thorough and carefully considered guidance to get you back on the right track. This can include taking a holistic approach to your problems by enhancing awareness and fostering a culture of ethical compliance with the aid of an ethics lawyer in New York.

The Exclusive Area of My Practice Includes Legal Ethics, Professional Responsibility, and Character & Fitness Advice for Bar Admission Candidates

Why Hire David A. Lewis Law?

Rated 4.8 out of 5 Stars by Peers on Martindale-Hubbell

Former Chair of the Professional Responsibility Committee

Rated as a Super Lawyer for 9 Consecutive Years

Superb Rating on Avvo

You may be thinking, “Why should I consider hiring David Lewis when I could research this on my own?”

That’s a fair question. The most significant reason is that, as one of the top ethics lawyers in the state, I have served on the very committees and professional organizations that help to set the standards for attorney ethics in New York. Trusted advice from someone who has helped others successfully resolve similar matters can be extremely valuable.

For Bar Admissions, Choose Extensive Experience and Excellence

Why Do Character & Fitness Clients Trust David A. Lewis Law PLLC?

Having advised so many over the years, we understand exactly why character and fitness proceedings can feel so daunting. Determining who you can trust is a big decision. Clients have told us they selected us over less experienced and lower-priced options for several compelling reasons:

Proven Record

With so many years of working exclusively in this highly specialized area, the firm has a rare combination of depth of relevant knowledge/experience and a proven record of success. The insights we offer are based on experience and strategies honed over countless successful cases.

Personalized Attention

We believe every client has their own unique path. Clients appreciate our personalized approach, ensuring they’re not just another file on the desk. We are not a volume practice. We can’t accept work from everyone who reaches out for our help. We bring a commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of each client. This provides a tailored experience that larger firms often can't match.

Exceptional Results

Lawyers do not promise results, but our clients’ past success stories speak volumes about what we do and how we do it. Choosing David A. Lewis Law PLLC for ethics matters means partnering with a firm that prioritizes your professional standing and ability to successfully practice law. Clients have told us they value our ability to navigate complex issues with such creativity and care, producing favorable outcomes that have protected their careers.

Integrity and Compassion

Dealing with character and fitness issues is stressful. Clients choose us because we handle their cases with the utmost integrity and compassion. We are here to support you at every step, helping you feel confident and informed.

Choose David A. Lewis Law PLLC—where experience, personalized care, and dedicated advocacy all work to ensure that your professional future is in the right hands.

Secure Your Reputation: Choose Wisely, and Get Counsel for Attorney Grievance Responses

Why Do Attorney Clients Trust David A. Lewis Law PLLC?

When faced with an attorney grievance complaint, choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference. Lawyers choose David A. Lewis Law PLLC over other firms for several critical reasons:

Experience

As an ethics lawyer defending lawyers, David A. Lewis brings a creative and unique perspective with respect to how to handle attorney grievance proceedings. This firm is dedicated to protecting your professional reputation with proven strategies refined through extensive experience in this very specific area of law.

Tailored Defense

We recognize the unique nature of each grievance complaint and respondent. Our clients value a customized defense that considers the nuances of their specific situation. At David A. Lewis Law PLLC, you are not just a case number; you are a fellow attorney whose career deserves the best defense possible.

Proactive Advocacy

Our clients appreciate our proactive approach to resolving complaints. From the outset, we work diligently to mitigate potential damages, aiming to resolve issues swiftly and discreetly. We understand the stakes are high and prioritize maintaining the integrity and continuity of your legal practice.

Ethical and Empathetic Service

Responding to a grievance is often a stressful ordeal. Clients choose us because we approach each case with empathy and ethical rigor. We ensure that you feel supported throughout the process, helping to offer peace of mind and alleviate some of the stress.

Choose David A. Lewis Law PLLC—where unique experience, personalized strategies, and steadfast advocacy defend your career and work to defend your professional standing.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation

Let’s connect and discuss your situation. I am passionate about helping other lawyers (and lawyers-to-be) work to accomplish their goals and successfully navigate ethical issues.
Having an ethics lawyer in New York can make a big difference.

Connect With Us

OR Call 212-951-1819

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to hire a character and fitness lawyer for my application to the New York Bar?

Investing in professional legal assistance can help with the prompt resolution of ethics issues, avoidance of Bar admission denial, making the difficult but necessary disclosures to the Bar, and (most valued by many) the peace of mind that you are doing everything possible to help protect the significant investment made to further your professional life.

How can David A. Lewis Law PLLC assist me with my character and fitness concerns for the New York Bar?

David A. Lewis Law PLLC focuses on navigating the complex character and fitness requirements of the New York Bar. With extensive experience in this field, we provide strategic guidance and robust advocacy to address and resolve any concerns that may arise during your application process. Our firm offers personalized counsel to ensure that every aspect of your background is presented in the most favorable light, thoughtfully preparing you for interviews and follow-up inquiries from the committee. We work to safeguard your professional future and avoid bar admission denial by addressing potential character and fitness issues proactively and effectively.

What character and fitness obstacles have candidates faced during the Bar admission process?

Candidates can face potential challenges related to:

Prior arrests, criminal charges, and convictions
Title IX or other school disciplinary hearings
Past school misconduct matters
Alcohol or substance-related issues
Past educational discipline or suspension
Failing to make necessary amendments to law school applications
Disclosure of false information on a resume
Unauthorized practice of law
Cheating
Plagiarism
Charges brought by the New York Board of Law Examiners (NYBOLE)
Termination from employment
Academic probation
False statements
Finding of responsibility for misconduct
Assault, Harassment, Theft, DWI, DUI
Conduct related to honesty, truthfulness, or fitness to practice law

How can potential obstacles during the character and fitness process be mitigated?

Every case is unique. However, by taking prompt remedial action and with advance planning and creative thinking, you can help demonstrate credibility through a wide range of proactive steps. Seek guidance from an experienced ethics and New York Bar Character and Fitness attorney who can work with you to help you make your disclosures and mitigate the impact of the obstacles you will face.

How can David A. Lewis Law PLLC assist me if I have received a grievance complaint?

We get a copy of the actual complaint and review it with you to determine exactly what issues need to be addressed. Sometimes there are critical considerations that are not immediately evident on the face of the page. Together, we will work in a collaborative and creative manner to determine the most effective options for strategy, response, and next steps.

What are common complaints that David A. Lewis PLLC has helped clients to navigate in the past?

Attorney Grievance Complaints can take many forms and relate to issues with:

Dishonored checks from an attorney trust account
“Bounced” check reports from the Lawyers’ Fund for Client Protection
Failure to communicate
Unprofessional conduct
Attorneys convicted of a crime and required to make a self-report
Failure to comply with CLE obligations
Attorney registration requirements with the Office of Court Administration
Dishonest or misleading conduct
Conflict of interest
Law-related businesses
Unauthorized practice of law
Malpractice
Missing deadlines
Billing disputes
Engagement letter and retainer agreement requirements
Conduct related to honesty, truthfulness, or fitness to practice law

I am a lawyer, so why can’t I save money and do this myself?

As an experienced law firm focused on ethics and attorney defense, David A. Lewis Law PLLC brings an objective perspective essential for effectively navigating any grievance matter proceedings. We understand the nuances of grievance processes and can advocate on your behalf without the emotional involvement that might cloud judgment. Our experience not only helps to preemptively address any unforeseen pitfalls but also ensures a thorough and dispassionate defense, which is crucial when your professional reputation is at stake. Engaging our services allows you to focus on your practice while we manage the defense, maximizing the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

What if the whole complaint is baseless and I have done nothing wrong?

Even if a complaint appears baseless, it is still prudent to get an objective view from David A. Lewis Law PLLC for your defense. Experience shows that grievance proceedings can sometimes expand beyond the initial allegations, as investigations may uncover or scrutinize other aspects of your practice not originally questioned. Our firm's knowledge and strategic approach provide crucial foresight and preparation for such possibilities. By representing you, we ensure that your defense is comprehensive and proactive, safeguarding not only against the current complaint but also against potential issues that could arise during the investigative process. This level of preparedness is invaluable, as it can help maintain your professional standing and continue your practice without unforeseen complications.

How can I contact David A. Lewis Law PLLC for assistance?

You can call 212-951-1819 to discuss your situation and schedule a paid confidential consultation or you can complete our contact form.

The work you do as an attorney is full of difficult choices and high standards of conduct.

Ethical dilemmas can be a stressful area for most lawyers—absent trusted legal ethics counsel.

You Don’t Want To Find Out The Hard Way That There Is A Gap In Your Knowledge.

Bar Admissions

Conduct Complaints

Ethics Advice

My Legal Ethics Practice Is Based On A Simple Philosophy:
Prevention and Mitigation Are Powerful Tools