Legal Question in Legal Ethics in Arizona

Can an ex felone with a murder charge and armed robberies practice law or a certain area of law in any state in America, even when the crime was at the age of 16. Person did 13 1/2 years got out in 2003 with only 3 months probation. He has entered college with a GPA of 3.76 as of now. He wants to become an attorney. Can he practice anywhere or is all hope for him gone?


Asked on 10/01/09, 2:09 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Dustin Vidrine Wade & Vidrine, PLC

Each state will have their own standards when looking at the character and fitness of each potential attorney. Many people have "pasts" to deal with. You can contact the bar for each jurisdiction, many of which have websites with the applicable rules regarding character and fitness. The length of time since the wrong and rehabilitation are two factors that will be considered, among other things.

Certainly, I would not say "all hope for him" is gone, but it is certainly something that will require disclosure to the applicable governing board, and will be an issue to deal with once disclosed. I have read of situations where felons have been admitted, but would think that each case is different.

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Answered on 10/06/09, 7:23 pm


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