Office of Disciplinary Counsel v. Hartsock

Summary

The Supreme Court of Ohio indefinitely suspended Walter D. Hartsock from the practice of law for providing insider settlement information to attorneys in exchange for kickbacks while employed as an insurance claims adjuster. The court adopted findings that his conduct violated multiple provisions of the Code of Professional Responsibility, including provisions concerning illegal conduct, dishonesty, prejudice to the administration of justice, and fitness to practice law.

Holdings

1. Hartsock's participation in kickback arrangements involving insider settlement information violated DR 1-102(A)(3), DR 1-102(A)(4), DR 1-102(A)(5), and DR 1-102(A)(6).
2. Hartsock was indefinitely suspended from the practice of law in Ohio, with costs taxed to him.

Questions Presented

1. Whether Hartsock's participation in kickback schemes involving insider insurance-claim settlement information violated the Code of Professional Responsibility.
2. What disciplinary sanction was appropriate for Hartsock's misconduct.

Disposition

other