The next time a lawyer knowingly misappropriates client funds, it should be very clear that the punishment will include a minimum 12-year suspension from the practice of law.
A Practice Book rule change recently approved by the state’s Judges of the Superior Court amended the language in rule 2-47A regarding disbarment of attorneys for misappropriation of funds. While a separate rule states that a lawyer who steals clients’ funds cannot apply for reinstatement of their law license if disbarred until 12 years have passed, the Judicial Branch wanted “consistency” in the rules.
