On Wednesday, September 20, 2023, the District of Columbia Court of Appeals Board on Professional Responsibility Hearing Committee Number Nine recommended a one-year suspension for attorney Larry Klayman, citing a pattern of misconduct that includes making false statements and asserting frivolous claims.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Larry E. Klayman,” with case no. 18-BD-070.
The charges stem from Klayman’s unsuccessful application to be admitted pro hac vice to a federal district court in Nevada, where he sought to represent Cliven Bundy, a defendant in a criminal case. The Board on Professional Responsibility found that Klayman violated several rules of professional conduct. Specifically, Klayman is accused of knowingly making false statements to courts, asserting frivolous claims, and engaging in conduct that seriously interfered with the administration of justice.
Furthermore, the Hearing Committee found that Klayman had engaged in a pattern of misconduct. This pattern of misconduct suggests that Klayman’s actions were not isolated incidents, but rather part of a larger pattern of behavior that is inconsistent with the ethical standards of the legal profession.
In light of the seriousness of the misconduct and the pattern of behavior exhibited by Klayman, the Hearing Committee recommended a one-year suspension and a fitness requirement for reinstatement. This recommendation reflects the Committee’s view that Klayman’s conduct was serious enough to warrant a significant sanction, but also that he can be rehabilitated and return to the practice of law if he takes steps to address his behavior and demonstrate his fitness to practice.
The recommendation states:
“For the foregoing reasons, the Hearing Committee finds that Respondent violated Rules 3.1, 3.3(a), 8.1(a), 8.1(b), 8.4(a), 8.4(c), and 8.4(d). The Hearing Committee also finds that Respondent engaged in conduct unbecoming a member of the Bar. The Hearing Committee recommends that Respondent be suspended for one year and that he be required to prove his fitness to practice law prior to reinstatement.”
According to avvo.com, Mr. Klayman is an attorney in Boca Raton, Florida. He attended the Emory University School of Law. He acquired his law license in the District of Columbia in 1980.
A copy of this original filing can be found here.
