Summary
The Ohio Supreme Court considers disciplinary charges against Stephen P. Deffet involving neglect of a client matter, dishonest conduct, misuse of a client trust account, and failure to cooperate with the disciplinary investigation. In light of the misconduct and respondent’s prior public reprimand, the court indefinitely suspends him from practicing law in Ohio and assesses costs against him.
Holdings
- Deffet violated DR 1-102(A)(4), (5), and (6); DR 6-101(A)(3); DR 7-101(A)(1) and (2); DR 9-102(B)(3); and Gov.Bar R. V(4)(G), as found by the board.
- Indefinite suspension from the practice of law in Ohio was appropriate.
Questions Presented
- Whether Deffet violated the cited provisions of the Ohio Code of Professional Responsibility and Gov.Bar R. V(4)(G).
- Whether indefinite suspension from the practice of law was the appropriate sanction in light of Deffet's misconduct and prior disciplinary record.
Disposition
other
Cases Cited (2)
- Columbus Bar Assn. v. Deffet, 98 Ohio St. 3d 384, 2003-Ohio-1090, 785 N.E.2d 746(followed as prior disciplinary history)
- Cuyahoga Cty. Bar Assn. v. Lawrence, 101 Ohio St. 3d 4, 2003-Ohio-6450, 800 N.E.2d 1108(followed)
Cited In (0)
No citing cases on record yet.
Court Document
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