Ryan D. Saba

Ryan D. Saba started working with colleague Jim Rosen in 1999.

“For the past 25 years, we have been fortunate to obtain justice for our clients who crossed paths with some unscrupulous and unethical attorneys,” Saba said. “The successful prosecution of our cases brings dignity, civility and integrity to our profession. That makes me proud to be an attorney.”

One of Saba’s significant cases in the past year involved defending Keith Griffin, a former non-equity partner and the first Girardi Keese attorney at the firm to stand trial in the State Bar Court.

The State Bar sought to disbar Griffin, but after a four-day trial, the State Bar Court rejected the request.

Saba also regularly prosecutes legal malpractice and breach of fiduciary actions against AM100 law firms.

He argues that persuasive arguments should be based on facts and the law, not on being loud or abusive to opposing counsel. As advocates for clients, attorneys are placed in a competitive environment, but they should appreciate the gravity of their role and treat opposing counsel and the court with respect and deference.

As far as trends go, Saba said civility continues to be of utmost importance in maintaining the integrity of the profession.

“Practicing law is a privilege and should be held to the highest of ethical and civil standards. Persuasive arguments are about facts and the law, not about being the loudest or abusive to opposing counsel,” he said.

Saba continued: “Civility in the practice of law promotes effectiveness, respect by your peers, and an enjoyment in the privilege we have all been granted to practice law.”