In the Matter of Douglas O. Beerbower

Summary

The Indiana Supreme Court approved a conditional agreement disciplining Douglas O. Beerbower for professional misconduct arising from multiple operating-while-intoxicated convictions, including a felony conviction causing serious bodily injury. The Court suspended him from practicing law for at least two years or for the duration of his incarceration, whichever was longer, beginning May 25, 2007.

Holdings

1. The Court approved the Statement of Circumstances and Conditional Agreement for Discipline submitted by the Disciplinary Commission and Respondent.
2. Respondent violated Indiana Professional Conduct Rule 8.4(b) by committing criminal acts that reflected adversely on his honesty, trustworthiness, or fitness as a lawyer.
3. Respondent was suspended from the practice of law in Indiana for at least two years or for the period of his incarceration, whichever was longer, beginning May 25, 2007, without automatic reinstatement.

Questions Presented

1. Whether the Court should approve the parties' conditional agreement concerning Respondent's professional misconduct.
2. What discipline is appropriate for violating Indiana Professional Conduct Rule 8.4(b).

Disposition

approved