Suspensions, Probations For False CLE Certifications

Some recurring themes in discipline matters recently reported in the California Bar Journal

CLIFFORD NELSON SCHUSTER [#152164], 52, of Anaheim, was suspended from the practice of law for 30 days and ordered to take the MPRE. He was also placed on one year of probation and faces a one-year suspension if he does not comply with the terms of his disciplinary probation. The order took effect May 28, 2016.

Schuster falsely reported under penalty of perjury he had completed his required MCLE hours when he hadn’t. He ultimately completed the necessary hours but only after he was audited.

CAROL MARION SLATIN [#87748], 71, of Deerfield Beach, Fla., was suspended from the practice of law for 30 days and ordered to take the MPRE. She was also placed on one year of probation and faces a one-year suspension if she does not comply with the terms of her disciplinary probation. The order took effect May 28, 2016.

Slatin falsely reported to the State Bar under the penalty of perjury she was in compliance with her MCLE requirements when she wasn’t. She completed the necessary hours after learning she was the subject of an MCLE audit.

RICHARD HENRY WAGNER [#127326], 61, of San Diego, was suspended from the practice of law for 30 days and ordered to take the MPRE. He was also placed on one year of probation and faces a one-year suspension if he does not comply with the terms of his disciplinary probation. The order took effect May 28, 2016.

Wagner falsely reported to the State Bar he had completed 25 hours of MCLE during the compliance period when he had not. He took the necessary hours to bring himself into compliance after being contacted in connection with an MCLE audit.

A useful reminder for this time of year. (Mike Frisch)