Board of Professional Conduct’s 2017 Annual Report.

Board of Professional Conduct’s 2017 Annual Report.

The Ohio Board of Professional Conduct has issued its 2017 annual report, highlighting the disposition of 75 disciplinary cases, a new Web presence, and the availability of an online docket that includes access to disciplinary case documents.

The 75 case dispositions included 52 in which the Board recommended the imposition of discipline against an Ohio attorney or judge. The Board conducted 48 panel hearings, spanning 54 days, and conducted six meetings to review reports from hearing panels and Board committees. Thirteen cases were resolved as a result of the respondent’s resignation from the practice of law or suspension for failing to respond to a pending disciplinary complaint.

In May, the Board unveiled a redesigned website and, in July, supplemented the new website by providing online access to disciplinary case information and documents. By placing the disciplinary docket online, Ohio became the first jurisdiction in the United States to provide dedicated, electronic access to disciplinary case information and documents.

The Board continued its expansion of education and outreach activities in 2017.  Eight advisory opinions were issued, and the staff authored three ethics guides on the subjects of succession planning for lawyers and law firms, the ethical obligations of lawyers who are changing law firms, and considerations for lawyers who are leaving the practice of law to take judicial office. The staff made 41 education presentations and responded to more than 2,000 telephone calls and emails from lawyers, judges, and judicial candidates regarding their ethical obligations.

“The 2017 annual report reflects the dedication of the volunteer commissioners to promoting high standards of professional ethics and the Board’s continued commitment to bringing greater transparency to Ohio’s disciplinary process,” said Board Director Richard A. Dove.

The Board of Professional Conduct assists the Ohio Supreme Court in its constitutional obligation to regulate the practice of law.  The Board consists of 28 volunteer commissioners, appointed by the Supreme Court, and employs a staff of four.

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