Domestic Violence Suspension

The Oklahoma Supreme Court has imposed a suspension of two years and a day for an attorney’s domestic violence conviction

On or about the evening of July 3, 2011, Respondent’s wife and two children were sleeping in their car to avoid Respondent who was intoxicated. Respondent approached the car and accused the son, who was 14 years of age, of breaking a television set. Respondent’s son exited the vehicle and soon thereafter a verbal and physical altercation ensued. During the incident Respondent punched his son in the mouth causing a small cut and swollen lip. This occurred in the presence of Respondent’s wife and 7 year old daughter. Tulsa Police were called and Respondent was arrested.

While on probation for the offense there was a second incident of violence toward his son.

The court

Respondent has presented no defense for his actions and his brief states he readily accepts any discipline. He claims to have reconciled with his son and has completed 52 weeks of DVIS classes. The attached letter written by Mr. Brett states Respondent has matured and grown from his disbarment experience and is now “professionally prepared to resume his obligations as a practitioner of the law.” This letter was dated August 11, 2014, less than a month after Respondent received his interim suspension. Although, we encourage Respondent to continue his reconciliation efforts and remain sober, not enough time has passed to convince this Court he is prepared to resume the practice of law. This point is emphasized by the fact he reported having a relapse the day following the filing of his brief, August 22, 2014. As in Soderstrom, we find a suspension period of two years and one day is appropriate.

The suspension is effective as of the date of the interim suspension. (Mike Frisch)