Problems with your lawyer
Attorney Suspension vs. Disbarment, Explained
Last updated June 13, 2026
| Suspended | Disbarred | |
|---|---|---|
| License | Paused for a set or indefinite period | Revoked |
| Can practice now? | No (during the suspension) | No |
| Reason | Discipline OR administrative (dues, CLE) | Serious misconduct |
| Reinstatement | Often automatic or by petition after the term | Rare; requires a formal petition, sometimes barred for years |
| Public record? | Yes | Yes |
attorneys are currently disbarred or suspended of record across the 41 states we track.
Source: official state bar registration rosters.
Suspension: the license is paused
A suspended lawyer cannot practice during the suspension, but the license still exists. Crucially, suspensions come in two flavors: disciplinary (for misconduct) and administrative (for unpaid dues or missed continuing-education requirements). The official status string usually tells you which — read it before assuming the worst.
Disbarment: the license is revoked
Disbarment is the most serious sanction — the license is taken away for serious misconduct. In many states a disbarred lawyer can eventually petition for reinstatement after a set number of years, but it's difficult and far from guaranteed; some disbarments are permanent.
How to check a lawyer's status
License status, including suspension and disbarment of record, is public. Search the official roster for free using the lookup on this site (for the states we cover). If you see a disciplinary status, follow the link to the licensing authority for the underlying order and dates.
Check an attorney's record
Look up any attorney's license status and disciplinary standing against the official state roster — free, no account.
Frequently asked questions
Can a suspended lawyer still take my case?
No. A lawyer cannot practice law while suspended. If you learn your lawyer is suspended, you'll need to make other arrangements quickly, especially on a time-sensitive matter.
Can a disbarred lawyer get their license back?
Sometimes. Many states allow a petition for reinstatement after a waiting period, but the burden is high and many petitions fail. Some disbarments are permanent. The licensing authority's record will show current status.
Is a suspension always for misconduct?
No. Licenses are often suspended administratively for unpaid dues or missed continuing-education credits. That's very different from a disciplinary suspension — the official status string distinguishes them.
Related guides
- How to Check If Your Attorney Has Been Disciplined
- How to Read an Attorney Disciplinary Record
- What to Do If You Have a Problem With Your Lawyer
Numbers on this page are computed from official rosters — see our data sources & methodology. This guide is part of the problems with your lawyer series.
This site republishes official public records and is not legal advice, a lawyer referral service, or a consumer reporting agency. Information here may not be used to make decisions about employment, tenancy, or credit (FCRA). Records are shown as published by their official sources and may contain errors or be out of date; consult the linked official source to verify. To correct or dispute a record, contact the licensing authority of record.