BILL ANALYSIS

S.B. 534

By: Watson

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

S.B. 534 adds the following phrase to the attorney's oath: "conduct oneself with integrity and civility in dealing and communicating with the court and all parties." These ideas are central to the legal profession and match language added by at least 14 other states as part of a national movement emphasizing civility in the legal profession.

S.B. 534 amends current law relating to the oath of a person admitted to practice law in the State of Texas.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

S.B. 534 amends the Government Code to add to the contents of the oath required of each person admitted to practice law in Texas, before the person receives a license to practice law in Texas, that the person will conduct oneself with integrity and civility in dealing and communicating with the court and all parties.

EFFECTIVE DATE

On passage, or, if the bill does not receive the necessary vote, September 1, 2015.