Good Gamble

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has reinstated an attorney who had been suspended for 30 months as a result of an identity theft.

The victim was a law firm client whose confidential information was used to obtain three credit cards.

The Disciplinary Board found that the petitioner had addressed his gambling addiction

Petitioner was suspended for his criminal conviction of three counts of identity theft. This misconduct occurred while Petitioner was an active gambling addict. Petitioner is extremely remorseful for his misconduct and has fully acknowledged his wrongdoing as evidenced by his cooperation with the Office of Disciplinary Counsel during the disciplinary phase of this proceeding and his consensual acceptance of discipline. Petitioner has taken measures to seek and receive appropriate treatment for his gambling addiction. These measures date back to November 2009 and include evaluation and counseling with Dr. Sharon Richter, as well as active participation in Gamblers Anonymous and Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers. Dr. Richter’s letter and the testimony of Charles Mirarchi, a licensed gambling counselor, indicate that Petitioner has made significant progress in his rehabilitation and recovery, and has suffered no relapses. Both of these professionals have concluded that Petitioner is fit to resume the practice of law.

Petitioner’s persuasive testimony demonstrated his readiness to resume the practice of law. He credibly described the clear changes in his life since entering recovery from gambling. Petitioner has been unwavering in his efforts to rehabilitate himself. Not only has he actively worked his own recovery, he has transitioned to a place where he is able to assist other gamblers in recovery, both in GA and LCL. Petitioner called LCL and GA “blessings.” Petitioner explained that he never felt accountable for his actions when he was gambling but now the opposite is true. He testified that he feels accountable to his family and employer and relies on that strong sense of responsibility to help him maintain his recovery. According to Petitioner, recovery is his first priority. He fully understands the dire consequences of losing his job and his family if he relapses.

he has worked with a law firm that intends to employ him as an associate attorney. (Mike Frisch)