Time Schedule: 60 minutes

Summary of Topics Covered:

Introduction of Instructor Mark GiffordWhat are common ethical mistakes lawyers make that they do not realize they are making? What does cooperation with bar counsel during the complaint process look like?

What is the diversion program?

What is the best part of the job of bar counsel?

What is the procedural process and the burden of proof on bar counsel in the disciplinary hearing process?

The “Wyoming System” allowing bar counsel to handle ethics hotline calls

Instructor Mark W. Gifford, Esq. Bio:

Mark W. Gifford is Bar Counsel for the Wyoming State Bar. He is a Wyoming native who received his Bachelor’s in accounting from the University of Wyoming in 1978 and his law degree from Stanford University in 1981. After 30 years of practice as a trial lawyer and mediator, Mark took the position of Bar Counsel on a part-time basis in 2011 and became full-time in October 2013. In addition to attorney discipline, Gifford’s responsibilities include Unauthorized Practice of Law, Fee Dispute Resolution and Client Protection Fund.

He also serves as general counsel to the Wyoming State Bar. Gifford was instrumental in getting Wyoming’s Lawyer Assistance Program launched in 2014. He is a member of the ABA Standing Committee on Professional Regulation. He has been recognized as an AV Preeminent-rated lawyer by Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Ratings, a distinction based upon peer reviews by members of the Bar and the Judiciary.

WyoLawPod is a podcast that is fully accredited for CLE credit by the Wyoming State Bar. This episode features Mark Gifford. Bar Counsel for the Wyoming State Bar.