Akron Bar Ass'n v. Wittbrod

Summary

The Supreme Court of Ohio found attorney Harry J. Wittbrod in contempt after he failed to appear and failed to pay disciplinary board costs. The court revoked the stay of his prior six-month suspension and imposed requirements concerning cessation of practice, client notifications, continuing legal education, reimbursement obligations, and reinstatement.

Holdings

1. Wittbrod was found in contempt for failing to comply with the court's prior order and failing to appear as ordered.
2. The stay of Wittbrod's six-month suspension was revoked, and he was required to serve the entire six-month suspension.
3. Wittbrod was prohibited from practicing law or performing legal services during the suspension and could not be reinstated until satisfying the specified reinstatement, rule-compliance, and court-order requirements.

Questions Presented

1. Whether Wittbrod should be found in contempt for failing to comply with the court's prior disciplinary order and failing to appear for the show-cause proceeding.
2. Whether the stay of Wittbrod's six-month suspension should be revoked and the full suspension imposed.
3. What conditions and compliance obligations should govern Wittbrod during the suspension and before reinstatement.

Disposition

other