In re Asante

Summary

The Supreme Court of Ohio imposed an interim suspension from the practice of law on Lilian Antwiwaa Asante after receiving a certified copy of a judgment entry reflecting her felony conviction. The order also referred the matter for disciplinary investigation and established requirements concerning client notification, handling of client property and funds, continuing legal education, reimbursement to the Clients’ Security Fund, and possible reinstatement.

Holdings

1. Upon certification of a certified copy of the attorney's felony-conviction judgment entry, the court ordered Lilian Antwiwaa Asante suspended from the practice of law for an interim period and referred the matter to disciplinary counsel for investigation and commencement of disciplinary proceedings.
2. The suspended attorney must immediately cease the practice of law, comply with specified restrictions on employment and legal services, satisfy continuing-legal-education requirements, meet reinstatement conditions, reimburse qualifying Clients' Security Fund awards, notify clients and opposing parties, account for client property and trust funds, and file an affidavit documenting compliance.

Questions Presented

1. Whether the Supreme Court of Ohio should impose an interim suspension from the practice of law after certification of the respondent attorney's felony conviction.
2. What conditions and ancillary obligations should accompany the interim suspension.

Disposition

other