In the Matter of Disciplinary Proceedings Against Bruce J. Meagher

Summary

The Wisconsin Supreme Court approved a stipulation resolving disciplinary charges against Attorney Bruce J. Meagher. The court found misconduct based on representing a client in a conflict-of-interest situation without required written consent and engaging in criminal conduct related to an offshore sports-betting operation. The court imposed a six-month suspension of Meagher's Wisconsin law license, retroactive to November 12, 2002.

Holdings

1. The Supreme Court approved the parties' SCR 22.12 stipulation and adopted the stipulated facts and conclusions of law.
2. Meagher violated SCR 20:1.7(a) by representing Flannery in matters directly adverse to Haskins without reasonably believing the representation would not adversely affect the relationship and without obtaining the clients' written consent.
3. Meagher violated SCR 20:8.4(b) because his conviction for violating the federal Wire Wagering Act constituted criminal conduct reflecting adversely on his honesty, trustworthiness, or fitness as a lawyer.
4. A six-month suspension of Meagher's Wisconsin law license, retroactive to November 12, 2002, was appropriate discipline.

Questions Presented

1. Whether the Supreme Court should approve the parties' stipulation under SCR 22.12 and adopt its stipulated facts and conclusions of law.
2. Whether Meagher's representation of Flannery while directly adverse to former or concurrent client Haskins, without written conflict waivers, violated SCR 20:1.7(a).
3. Whether Meagher's federal Wire Wagering Act conviction constituted criminal conduct reflecting adversely on his honesty, trustworthiness, or fitness under SCR 20:8.4(b).
4. Whether a six-month suspension, retroactive to November 12, 2002, was appropriate discipline.

Disposition

approved