Suspension For Criminal Contempt

The New York Appellate Division for the First Judicial Department accepted a proposed four-month suspension of an attorney who pleaded guilty to criminal contempt

In support of the motion, the parties stipulate that on or about March 4, 2023, respondent violated an Order of Protection when he visited his former paramour, which resulted in an altercation between them. During the altercation, the paramour slipped and hit her forehead on a table, causing her to bruise. She did not seek medical attention for the injury. Respondent was arrested and later pleaded guilty to criminal contempt in the second degree on August 1, 2023. He was sentenced to a one-year conditional discharge, which was conditioned on his completion of a 16-week “Abusive Partner Intervention Program.”

The parties further stipulate that respondent has no disciplinary history, including before the USPTO and the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals. He has cooperated with both the New York County District Attorney’s Office and the AGC during their respective investigations. Respondent also continues to cooperate with the bars of the USPTO and the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals whose investigations are pending the outcome of this matter. He has accepted full responsibility and expressed remorse for his misconduct. Moreover, since pleading guilty, respondent has successfully completed the 16-week “Abusive Partner Intervention Program;” voluntarily placed himself in an intensive rehabilitation program for alcohol dependency, post-traumatic stress disorder, and emotional counseling; and attends, and has led, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings. The parties also assert that respondent is well regarded in the legal community and has a reputation for honesty and integrity.

In light of respondent’s admitted misconduct, the mitigating circumstances presented, and discipline imposed by this Court for similar attorney misconduct, the parties’ request for a four-month suspension is appropriate.

(Mike Frisch)