Who Wants To Buy This Diamond Ring?

A ring-stealing attorney gets a one-year suspension with reinstatement on a further court order from the New Jersey Supreme Court.

The Disciplinary Review Board tells the tale

On October 20, 2011, Tracy Rubinetti reported the theft of her 1.6 carat diamond engagement ring to the Mount Arlington Police Department and identified respondent as responsible for the theft. In a recorded telephone conversation with Rubinetti, respondent admitted that he had taken the ring without her permission. He admitted the same to the police, as well as the fact that he had sold the ring at a jewelry store.

The attorney was charged with theft and granted pretrial diversion.

He failed to report the criminal charges to disciplinary authorities. 

He also lied in a certification to the bar

The certification, however, contained materially false statements. Specifically, respondent had informed the police that Rubinetti had not given him permission to take or sell the ring and that he had not given her the proceeds from the sale.

He has a record of prior discipline.

Theft is bad, at least in theory

Generally, theft by an attorney results in a period of suspension, the length of which is determined by the severity of the crime and other mitigating or aggravating factors.

So is lying

Attorneys found guilty of lying to ethics authorities have received discipline ranging from a reprimand to a term of suspension.

The recommendation had dissents

Chair Frost and Member Singer voted to impose a two-year prospective suspension. Member Gallipoli voted to recommend respondent’s disbarment.

(Mike Frisch)