Bill > SB133

This bill modifies the procedures for handling attorney complaints filed with the State Bar of Texas by introducing a new mechanism for Supreme Court review of disciplinary actions. Specifically, after the chief disciplinary counsel investigates a complaint and finds just cause for proceeding, the Supreme Court can now, on its own motion or at the request of the respondent attorney, order a stay and reconsider the counsel's initial finding. During this reconsideration, the Supreme Court can either place the complaint on a dismissal docket or affirm the finding of just cause. The bill also clarifies that filing a motion for stay does not automatically pause existing filing deadlines or hearing schedules, and if the Supreme Court does not respond to a stay motion within 45 days, the motion is considered denied. These changes will apply only to grievances filed with the State Bar of Texas on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025, with previous grievances continuing to be governed by the law in effect at the time they were originally filed.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB133