Gentlemanly Restraints Removed

The web page of the Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseers reports a disbarment imposed by a single justice of the Supreme Judicial Court for misappropriation of entrusted funds and related misconduct. The Board’s Memorandum describes the misconduct and the attorney’s response:

Vehemently assailing the committee members, the probate court judge, Attorney Davis, and personnel in the Office of Bar Counsel in ad hominem terms, the respondent proclaims that he has been limited, until now, “by the prudential veil of disclosure and criticism of judicial action applicable to an admitted attorney.” Disbarment, he suggests somewhat ominously, “would free him from those outdated and questionable restraints, observance of which, as a gentleman and professional, have hurt and cost him dearly.” He should be disbarred.

(Mike Frisch)