DUI Homicide Draws Reciprocal Sanction

The Wisconsin Supreme Court has imposed reciprocal discipline of a six-month suspension based on an Illinois sanction

According to the stipulation and the Illinois disciplinary records attached to the OLR’s complaint, on July 28, 2018, Attorney Maras consumed at least five drinks containing Scotch whisky while socializing with friends in Oconto County, Wisconsin. At approximately 12:00 a.m. on July 29, 2018, Attorney Maras and his friend, J.G., left the cabin where they were staying to purchase cigars at a gas station located approximately seven miles away. Attorney Maras drove to the gas station, and J.G. was his passenger. On the way back to the cabin, at approximately 1:30 a.m., Attorney Maras drove his vehicle at approximately 100 miles per hour. He lost control of the vehicle, drove off the roadway, hit a tree stump, and caused J.G.’s ejection from the vehicle. J.G. died from blunt force trauma.

In the criminal case

Attorney Maras pled guilty to homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle, a Class D felony. He was sentenced to three years of incarceration and 10 years of extended supervision, both stayed, ordered to serve one year of jail time on work release, to perform 80 hours of community service, and to complete 15 years of probation. He was also fined $5,000, ordered to pay costs, and ordered not to possess or consume alcohol or illegal drugs. Pursuant to the negotiated plea, the district attorney’s office dismissed the other charges.

Illinois sanction

the Supreme Court of Illinois entered an order, consistent with the parties’ petition, imposing discipline on Attorney Maras suspending his Illinois law license for three years and until further order of the court, with the suspension stayed after six months by a three year period of probation.

(Mike Frisch)