Disbarment For Stealing From Elderly Clients

An Illinois Hearing Board recommends disbarment of an attorney who defaulted on these charges

Respondent’s misconduct was particularly egregious. That misconduct included, but was not limited to, misappropriating a total of over $800,000 in three separate matters, involving elderly persons, one of whom had dementia. In each of those matters, Respondent took funds repeatedly and over time. In addition, as Count IV reflects, Respondent took funds without authority from four other persons. Thus, an extensive pattern of misconduct was present.

The nature and extent of Respondent’s misconduct alone would warrant disbarment. The aggravating factors present provide additional support for this recommendation. The mitigating factors do not warrant a lesser sanction in this case.

The mitigation involved a lack of prior discipline and partial restitution. (Mike Frisch)