The Problem With Your Discipline History On The Web

I don't have a problem with the fact that the 10-year disciplinary history of a Florida lawyer is on the Florida Bar Website. I have a problem with the fact that it takes another click to see the details.

The word “none” appears if you have had no discipline during the last 10 years, and the word “yes” will appear if there is a 10-year history.

I'm thinking of the line from Jerry Maguire - "you had me at hello."

When someone moves their cursor to the line that says "yes," a message will appear advising that by clicking a displayed link, the member’s 10-year discipline history will be displayed. This includes admonishments, reprimands, suspensions, and disbarments.

How many people are going to see the word "yes, and care what comes next?

I think it should have some detail on the front page, whether that is "suspended for trust account violation," or "admonished for having one word wrong in an advertisement."

Located in Miami, Florida, Brian Tannebaum practices Bar Admission and Discipline and Criminal Defense. Read his free ebook The Truth About Hiring A Criminal Defense Lawyer. Please visit www.tannebaumweiss.com