At this time of year, I usually write a column with a list of New Year’s resolutions for best ethical practices in the year to come. (You can see last year’s column packed with good intentions here.) This year, I’m departing from that tradition to predict the future in the field of attorney discipline. However, for those of you who like your new year column with a side order of resolutions—I promise, you will find some throughout!

In fact, let’s start with: resolve to help a struggling attorney. While it is true that only a small percentage of Pennsylvania attorneys ever receive a disciplinary complaint, those that do are disproportionately unable to afford representation. These attorneys often represent themselves, or a friend or relative with no experience in the area will offer to assist. This often does not end well.