Protecting the Integrity of the Legal Profession: Recent Disbarments in California The State Bar of California has recently announced the disbarment of three attorneys, highlighting the commitment to upholding the integrity of the legal profession. These disbarments involve serious offenses, including possession of child pornography, drug distribution, and unauthorized practice of law. Such actions not only violate the law but also undermine the trust and confidence the public places in lawyers. One of the disbarred attorneys is Raymond Joseph Liddy, a former Deputy Attorney General in the California Department of Justice. Liddy was convicted of possessing child pornography in February 2020. The arrest took place in July 2017, and during the investigation, sexually explicit images of prepubescent minors were discovered on his personal devices. Liddy, whose father is the infamous Watergate figure G. Gordon Liddy, was sentenced to five years of probation following his conviction. His disbarment was officially announced on October 15. Another attorney facing disbarment is Jackie P. Ferrari, a former Long Beach lawyer convicted of felony drug charges related to the distribution of oxycodone. In June 2019, Ferrari pleaded guilty to one count of distribution after an investigation into the overdose death of a 22-year-old woman who had been in contact with Ferrari. The California Bar found that Ferrari had been selling oxycodone pills on Craigslist using coded names such as “foxy roxy doll.” Ferrari did not respond timely to her possible disbarment, which went into effect at the end of September. The third attorney, Michael Ralph McCabe from Redding, was disbarred for unauthorized practice of law and other counts of misrepresentation. McCabe represented a couple in a civil case involving a dispute with their landlord. However, he failed to serve the defendants with a complaint, neglected to file necessary paperwork, and missed court appearances, resulting in the dismissal of the case. Additionally, McCabe allegedly practiced law while being on administrative inactive status in 2018, making court appearances and filing court documents. McCabe’s lack of cooperation with the Bar’s investigation further exacerbated the situation. These disbarments serve as a reminder that the legal profession holds its members to the highest ethical standards. The State Bar of California’s Office of Chief Trial Counsel diligently investigates allegations of attorney misconduct to protect the public interest. Attorneys are presumed innocent until proven guilty by clear and convincing evidence in the State Bar Court. It is crucial to remember that these disbarments are isolated incidents and should not overshadow the vast majority of dedicated and ethical attorneys who tirelessly serve their clients and uphold the law. The legal profession relies on the trust and confidence of the public, and actions are taken to preserve its integrity. Tag: Attorney Misconduct Suggested Featured Image: “Legal Justice Scales”