Ethics/Professional Responsibility
Jun. 17, 2026
State Bar alleges Girardi Keese lawyer helped conceal diversion of San Bruno settlement funds
State Bar prosecutors contend Robert W. Finnerty knew settlement proceeds belonging to the Rui Gomez family were being improperly distributed and failed to protect his clients. Defense counsel argues Finnerty was a salaried attorney with no authority over firm finances and should not be held responsible for Thomas Girardi's fraud.
Opening statements began Tuesday in State Bar Court in Los Angeles in the disciplinary trial of longtime Girardi Keese attorney Robert W. Finnerty, who is accused of helping conceal the diversion of a $53 million Pacific Gas & Electric Co. settlement intended for victims of the San Bruno gas-line explosion.
The Office of Chief Trial Counsel seeks a two-year actual suspension, alleging Finnerty knew settlement funds belonging to the Rui Gomez family were being diverted to third...
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