Second Offense

From the February 2016 California Bar Journal

MARK WHITNEY LAPHAM [#146352], 55, of Danville, was suspended from the practice of law for 30 days and ordered to take the MPRE. He was also placed on two years’ probation and faces a two-year suspension if he does not comply with the terms of his disciplinary probation. The order took effect June 4, 2015.

In 2011, Lapham filed a Chapter 11 bankruptcy petition with the purpose of trying to delay a foreclosure on a property that was not owned by his client. He also did not report to the State Bar $1,000 in sanctions imposed against him.

He had one prior record of discipline. In 1994, he was suspended following his conviction for violations of the uniform code of military justice, including conspiracy to commit graft, conduct unbecoming an officer and dereliction of duty while he was a lieutenant in the Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps.

In mitigation, Lapham entered into a prefiling stipulation with the State Bar.

(Mike Frisch)