Trumbull Cty. Bar Assn. v. Costanzo

Summary

The Supreme Court of Ohio imposed an interim remedial suspension on Maridee L. Costanzo based on allegations that her conduct posed a substantial threat of serious harm to clients and the public. The order prohibited her from practicing law and imposed related client-notification, property-return, fee-refund, continuing-education, and reinstatement requirements.

Holdings

1. The court ordered an immediate interim remedial suspension of Maridee L. Costanzo from the practice of law pending final disposition of disciplinary proceedings.
2. The respondent was prohibited from practicing law or performing legal services, required to complete specified continuing-legal-education credits, reimburse qualifying Clients' Security Fund awards, notify clients and opposing parties, transfer client property, refund unearned fees, account for trust property, and satisfy specified requirements before reinstatement.

Questions Presented

1. Whether an interim remedial suspension should be imposed under Gov.Bar R. V(5a) based on allegations that the respondent attorney posed a substantial threat of serious harm to clients and the public.
2. What ancillary obligations should govern the respondent's suspension, client protection, continuing legal education, reimbursement obligations, and potential reinstatement.

Disposition

other