The North Carolina State Bar has filed a complaint alleging multiple ethics violations by an attorney in representing a client in a child custody matter.

The complaint alleges that the attorney began a sexual relationship with the client after the representation commenced, that the client lived with him in his apartment, that he employed and compensated her and that he shared parenting responsibilities of the child at issue in the litigation. 

It is further alleged that opposing counsel filed a motion to disqualify the attorney, and moved to quash the subpoena. He allegedly advised the client to ignore the subpoena to the hearing on the motion. 

The client appeared after several hours and the motion was granted.

The attorney is charged with conflicts of interest (in the sexual relationship and by providing financial support) without informed consent, acting as an advocate when he is likely a necessary witness, and conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice by opposing the disqualification motion. (Mike Frisch)