Many new and experienced attorneys are remaining unemployed for extended periods of time.  Some may view that period of unemployment as a black mark against their resume and may be tempted to “stretch the truth” a little so they can cover up their period of unemployment.  My advice:  Don’t do it.  Mark Villeneuve, a Connecticut-licensed lawyer who gave in to such a temptation when he allegedly lied several times about his work experience when applying for a staff attorney position at the state’s Workers’ Compensation Commission.

According to state officials, Villeneuve falsely claimed that he graduated cum laude from Western New England College School of Law in 2004 and that he served as the law review's assistant note editor. He also allegedly claimed that he was employed at the Law Offices of Jean Smith in Meriden, Conn., a firm that Villeneuve said handled all types of workers' comp matters—another falsehood.

State officials are also claiming that the inconsistencies in Villeneuve’s claims were revealed during a face-to-face interview for the position in February 2008. If found guilty of the charges, Villeneuve could face professional disciplinary action because the state’s ethics rules for lawyers clearly states that lawyers cannot lie.

Job candidates should avoid embellishing their resume because such “little white lies” could damage your legal reputation.  Remember, recruiters and employers are conducting more thorough background checks before and sometimes even after employment has been secured.  Some attorneys face background checks by clients in high profile cases that involve lots of money or where a lot is at risk.  Don’t take the chance of ruining your reputation, remain truthful at all times.