In the Matter of Clifford E. Hardwick, IV

Summary

The Court upheld the Special Master’s determination that Hardwick knowingly made false statements to the State Bar in violation of Rule 8.1(a), deferring to the Special Master’s factual and credibility findings because they were supported by the record. Given that violation, Hardwick’s extensive disciplinary history, and the applicable rule concerning subsequent disciplinary infractions, the Court concluded that disbarment was the only appropriate sanction and removed him from the rolls of persons authorized to practice law. The Court pretermitted whether Hardwick also violated the rules governing client funds and dishonest conduct.