Ex Parte

The Indiana Supreme Court imposed a 30 day suspension with automatic reinstatement for misconduct in a domestic relations matter. The court found that the attorney had engaged in an improper ex parte communication with a judicial officer.

The attorney was retained by the wife. The issue related to the husband’s efforts to obtain entry to property that had been sold at a tax sale to remove personal items. The attorney also had altered a document and, as a result, exposed the husband to possible arrest.

Justice Sullivan dissented and would impose a suspension of 90 days. (Mike Frisch)