Veteran Beverly Hills trial lawyer Paul Kiesel is facing disciplinary charges from the State Bar of California, stemming from his involvement in a complex water billing scandal that has already ensnared several former Los Angeles city officials. The charges, filed , according to reports, center around allegations related to a billing lawsuit scheme.
The State Bar’s action follows testimony from key witness Eric George, who reportedly shifted blame for the scheme from James Clark to Kiesel and another attorney, Paul. George’s testimony suggests a deliberate attempt to deflect responsibility for the alleged misconduct. While the specifics of the charges remain detailed within the State Bar’s proceedings, the allegations point to potential ethical violations related to billing practices and client representation.
Kiesel, a prominent figure in the California legal community, is a partner at Kiesel Law LLP, located in Beverly Hills. His firm specializes in high-stakes litigation, representing clients in a variety of complex cases. According to the State Bar’s online attorney search, Kiesel’s license remains active. The firm’s website, www.kiesel.law, lists a range of practice areas, though the State Bar does not verify the accuracy of these self-reported areas of expertise.
The case originates from a broader investigation into the handling of a lawsuit brought against the city of Los Angeles regarding inflated water bills. The lawsuit, filed by a group of ratepayers, alleged that the city had overcharged residents for water services. The subsequent fallout has led to criminal charges against several individuals, including former city officials. A former Los Angeles City Attorney’s official was charged in in connection with the civil litigation, and reportedly, Kiesel expressed concerns about threats and demands made during a meeting with an individual identified as “Person A,” characterizing them as extortion.
The State Bar Court provides public access to records of disciplinary proceedings. Dockets for cases are available online, allowing the public to track the progress of the case against Kiesel. The court’s website (https://www.statebarcourt.ca.gov/public-records-information) offers a search function for case information, requiring either a case number or the attorney’s name. Certified copies of discipline documents are available for a fee of $26.00 per case.
The implications of these charges for Kiesel’s career and reputation are significant. Disciplinary action by the State Bar can range from a private reprimand to suspension or even disbarment. A suspension would temporarily prevent Kiesel from practicing law, while disbarment would permanently revoke his license. The outcome of the proceedings will likely depend on the evidence presented and the State Bar Court’s assessment of the alleged ethical violations.
The case also raises broader questions about the ethical responsibilities of attorneys involved in complex litigation, particularly when dealing with public entities and large-scale financial disputes. The allegations suggest a potential conflict of interest or a failure to adequately represent the interests of clients. The State Bar’s investigation is likely to scrutinize Kiesel’s conduct throughout the course of the water billing lawsuit, examining his communications, billing records, and overall representation of his clients.
The involvement of Eric George as a key witness adds another layer of complexity to the case. His testimony, placing blame on Kiesel, suggests a potential attempt to mitigate his own legal exposure. The State Bar Court will need to carefully evaluate the credibility of George’s statements and assess his motivations for providing the information.
The disciplinary proceedings against Paul Kiesel are unfolding against a backdrop of increased scrutiny of legal ethics and professional conduct in California. The State Bar has been actively pursuing cases involving alleged misconduct by attorneys, aiming to protect the public and maintain the integrity of the legal profession. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical behavior and adherence to professional standards for all members of the bar.
As of , the status of the disciplinary proceedings remains ongoing. Further updates will depend on the State Bar Court’s schedule and the presentation of evidence. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching consequences for Kiesel’s legal career and potentially influence future legal proceedings related to the water billing scandal.
