Demand Accountability — File an Ethics Complaint Against Bill Essayli
File an ethics complaint with the California State Bar against U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for violating professional conduct rules by encouraging the public to spread misinformation to immigrant support hotlines.
You can file an Attorney Misconduct Complaint online via the California Bar.
In recent reporting by L.A. TACO, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bilal “Bill” Essayli (CalBar #273441) publicly encouraged people to “provide inaccurate information” to Southern California community hotlines that protect immigrants during ICE enforcement actions. These hotlines—run by trusted local organizations like CHIRLA and the OC Rapid Response Network—have since reported harassment, disruption, and intimidation resulting directly from this statement.
We must hold public officials accountable when they misuse their authority or spread misinformation that endangers vulnerable populations.
The State Bar of California has jurisdiction over Mr. Essayli’s conduct as a licensed attorney in California. Please file an ethics complaint through the Bar’s online system:
Key Facts
Attorney: Bilal “Bill” Essayli (California Bar #273441)
Bar Record: Licensee Information
Incident: Publicly advised people they had a “First Amendment right” to “provide inaccurate information” to immigrant support hotlines—advice lacking legal basis and carrying public harm.
Possible Rules Violated
Rule 8.4.1 – Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation
His comments appear to target organizations protecting immigrant and minority communities, potentially amounting to unlawful harassment or retaliation in the course of representing the U.S. government.Rule 4.1 – Truthfulness in Statements to Others
By asserting an unqualified “First Amendment right” to provide false information, he may have made a false statement of law to the public.Rule 4.3 – Communicating with an Unrepresented Person
In speaking to the general public on behalf of a client (the U.S. government), he arguably gave improper legal advice and created a false impression of disinterest regarding the consequences of such actions.
How You Can Take Action
Filing an ethics complaint is simple, confidential, and effective. Use the State Bar’s official online complaint form and reference the facts above.
We have a civic duty to uphold standards of honesty and fairness—especially when our institutions and communities are under threat.
Let’s send a clear message: misinformation has no place in public service or the legal profession.
Background
Attorney Misconduct Online Complaint submission page: https://apps.calbar.ca.gov/complaint/
Rules of the State Bar. https://www.calbar.ca.gov/legal-professionals/rules/rules-state-bar