By Nolan Clay, Staff Writer
An Oklahoma attorney who writes best-selling legal thrillers is being allowed to keep his law license despite four arrests for drunken driving and one for public intoxication.
William G. Bernhardt, 54, has written more than 20 novels including “Primary Justice,” “Double Jeopardy,” “Murder One,” “Criminal Intent” and “Capitol Betrayal.” He has more than 10 million books in print.
He has been a licensed attorney in Oklahoma since 1986.
Last week, the Oklahoma Supreme Court ruled 5-4 that Bernhardt can keep his law license — if he stays sober.
He was ordered to refrain from any use of alcohol, mind-altering substances or illegal drugs over the next two years and a day.
He also was ordered to work with the group Lawyers Helping Lawyers and to have weekly contact with his mentor.
He was warned he will be suspended for two years and a day if he violates those conditions.
Justices acted after concluding “the repetition of the DUI offenses” reflected adversely on the legal profession and showed an indifference to legal obligations.
The Supreme Court regularly disciplines attorneys who violate the law.
Read more on NewsOK.com