Karen Sloan, Reuters; 'Snitch' rule adopted by California bar amid ethics scandals
"The California Supreme Court on Wednesday adopted a lawyer professional misconduct reporting rule that brings it in line with every other state.
Lawyers in California starting on Aug. 1 will be required to report fraud, misappropriation of funds and other criminal acts or conduct that raise "a substantial question" about another lawyer's "honesty, trustworthiness, or fitness as a lawyer."
Adoption of the so-called “snitch rule” comes after intense debate within the State Bar of California, which recommended the rule change to the court earlier this month."