What is the consequence of a serious disciplinary sanction for an attorney who has violated an ethical rule?

The consequence of a serious disciplinary sanction for an attorney who has violated an ethical rule can indeed include a prohibition from practicing law for either a specified or indefinite period. This reflects the severity of the violation and acts as both a punishment and a deterrent against future unethical behavior. Such a sanction emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of the legal profession and protecting the public.

When an attorney is found to have significantly breached ethical standards, the disciplinary actions taken aim to uphold the principles of justice and professional responsibility. Depending on the gravity of the violation, the duration of the prohibition may vary, with some cases resulting in a temporary suspension that can eventually lead to reinstatement under certain conditions, while others may be more permanent in nature or carry conditions for future practice.

The other options, while related to disciplinary actions, do not fully capture the wide range of consequences that serious ethical violations can entail. For instance, permanent disbarment is a more extreme consequence that is typically reserved for the most egregious violations, while revocation of a license on a temporary basis is a subset of what could be considered under option C. Additionally, requiring mandatory ethics courses is generally a separate disciplinary measure rather than a primary consequence of serious violations. Therefore, the nature and