John Buran's License Suspension and What It Means
John Buran, an attorney who practiced in Wisconsin, had his law license suspended by the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The suspension resulted from disciplinary action taken by the State Bar of Wisconsin, the organization that oversees attorney conduct in the state. If you were working with Buran on a vehicle registration matter or any other legal issue, the suspension means he can no longer practice law or represent clients in Wisconsin.
A suspended license is different from a revoked license. Suspension is temporary — it has a defined end date or conditions for reinstatement. Revocation is permanent. The specific terms of Buran's suspension, including its length and any conditions for reinstatement, are matters of public record through the Wisconsin Supreme Court and the State Bar of Wisconsin.
Key Takeaways
- John Buran cannot practice law in Wisconsin while his license is suspended, and any legal work he was handling must be transferred to another attorney.
- The State Bar of Wisconsin maintains public records of attorney discipline, including the reasons for suspension and the effective dates.
- If Buran was representing you in a vehicle registration dispute or other matter, you have the right to find new counsel and request your file from his office.
- You can verify an attorney's license status at any time through the State Bar of Wisconsin's online attorney search tool.
How to Find Your Case File If Buran Was Your Attorney
If John Buran was handling a vehicle registration matter for you, your first step is to contact his law office directly and request your complete file. By law, attorneys must return client files upon request, even if there is a fee dispute or the relationship has ended. Ask for copies of all documents, correspondence, and work product related to your case.
Write your request in a letter or email and keep a copy for your records. Include your name, the case or matter description, and the dates you worked with the firm. If the office does not respond within a reasonable time (typically 10 to 14 days), you can file a complaint with the State Bar of Wisconsin, which has authority to compel the return of client files.
Finding a New Attorney for Your Vehicle Registration Issue
Once you have your file, you will need to hire a new attorney if your matter is still pending. Look for an attorney licensed in Wisconsin who has experience with vehicle registration disputes, administrative law, or the specific issue you are facing — whether that is a title problem, registration denial, or a dispute with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.
You can search for licensed Wisconsin attorneys through the State Bar of Wisconsin's website, which includes attorney profiles, practice areas, and disciplinary history. Ask potential attorneys if they have handled similar registration cases and what their fee structure is. Many offer free initial consultations, which gives you a chance to discuss your case before committing.
Checking an Attorney's License Status Before Hiring
The State Bar of Wisconsin maintains a public database where you can search any attorney's license status, disciplinary record, and practice information. Before you hire someone new, use this tool to confirm the attorney is in good standing and has no active suspensions or restrictions.
The search is free and takes less than a minute. You will see the attorney's name, license number, jurisdiction, and any public discipline on record. If an attorney's license shows as suspended, inactive, or revoked, do not hire them. A current, active license is the baseline requirement to practice law in Wisconsin.
What Disciplinary Action Means for Your Case
Attorney discipline by the State Bar of Wisconsin happens when an attorney violates the Wisconsin Rules of Professional Conduct. These rules cover things like competence, communication with clients, conflicts of interest, and handling of client funds. A suspension typically means the attorney violated one or more of these rules in a way serious enough to warrant temporary removal from practice.
If you believe Buran's conduct harmed your case or your interests, you have the right to file a complaint with the State Bar of Wisconsin. The complaint process is separate from any civil lawsuit you might bring. The State Bar investigates complaints and can take additional discipline if warranted. You do not need an attorney to file a complaint, though you should document what happened and provide copies of relevant communications or documents.
Your Options if Your Case Was Delayed or Harmed
If Buran's suspension has left your vehicle registration matter unresolved or if you believe his conduct caused you harm, you have several paths forward. First, hire a new attorney to continue or restart your case. Second, file a complaint with the State Bar of Wisconsin if you believe he violated professional conduct rules. Third, consult with another attorney about whether you have grounds for a malpractice claim — this is a civil lawsuit seeking damages for harm caused by negligent or incompetent legal work.
Malpractice claims have time limits, so do not delay. Contact a new attorney as soon as possible to discuss what happened and what your options are. Many attorneys who handle malpractice cases offer free consultations and work on contingency, meaning they take a percentage of any settlement or judgment rather than charging upfront fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use work John Buran did before his suspension?
Yes, any legal work completed before the suspension is still valid. However, if your case is ongoing, you will need a new attorney to continue representing you. Do not assume the work is complete — review your file carefully with your new attorney to confirm what has been done and what remains.
How do I know if my case is still pending?
Contact the Wisconsin Department of Transportation or the relevant court directly and provide your case or registration number. They can tell you the current status. Then share that information with your new attorney so they understand where things stand and what the next steps are.
Will I have to pay Buran's firm for work already done?
That depends on your fee agreement and whether the work was completed. Review your engagement letter or fee agreement carefully. If you dispute the bill, you can raise the issue with the State Bar of Wisconsin, which has authority to review fee disputes. You may also be able to offset any fees owed against damages if you pursue a malpractice claim.
How long does a suspension usually last?
The length varies depending on the violation and the circumstances. Some suspensions last months, others years. The specific terms of Buran's suspension are available through the Wisconsin Supreme Court's records and the State Bar of Wisconsin website. Contact the State Bar directly if you need clarification on when or whether he can practice again.
What if I cannot afford a new attorney?
If your vehicle registration issue involves a dispute with a government agency, contact Wisconsin's legal aid organizations, which provide free or low-cost legal help to people who meet income limits. The State Bar of Wisconsin website lists legal aid providers by county. You can also ask the court handling your case if it has a self-help center or resources for people representing themselves.