In disciplinary matters, which action temporarily prevents a lawyer from practicing?

• A. Disbarment
• B. Negligence
• C. Client trust account
• D. Suspension

Answer: (D)

Suspension is the measure used to temporarily bar a lawyer from practicing while a disciplinary matter is investigated or resolved. It serves to protect clients and the public by removing the attorney from the practice for a set period or until reinstatement conditions are met. This differs from disbarment, which permanently removes a lawyer from the bar. Negligence refers to failing to meet the professional standard of care and can lead to discipline or civil liability, but it is not the action that temporarily prevents practice. Issues with a client trust account can trigger disciplinary action, but they are not by themselves the temporary prohibition to practice. So the action that temporarily prevents practicing is suspension.