Attorney Admitted In 1958 Suspended For Three Years

An attorney admitted in 1958 was suspended for three years by the New York Appellate Division for the Third Judicial Department for misappropriation and conflict of interests

In mitigation, respondent cites his 65 years of service to the community, the bar and clients, which includes participation in several religious, political and philanthropic endeavors (see ABA Standards for Imposing Lawyer Sanctions standard 9.32 [g]), as well as what could be considered personal issues, including his age (see ABA Standards for Imposing Lawyer Sanctions standard 9.32 [c]). He further cites, among other things, the delay in these disciplinary proceedings (see ABA Standards for Imposing Lawyer Sanctions standard 9.32 [j]) and the fact that no client has ultimately lost money as a result of his actions. Given the totality of the circumstances, and in order to protect the public, maintain the honor and integrity of the profession, and to deter others from committing similar misconduct (see Rules for Atty Disciplinary Matters [22 NYCRR] § 1240.8 [b] [2]), we grant the parties’ joint motion and suspend respondent from the practice of law for three years.

Respondent had been suspended for six months in 1981, censured in 1999 and been subject to  “various forms of private discipline over the course of respondent’s numerous years in practice.”  (Mike Frisch)