Architect And Attorney

The New York Appellate Division for the Third Judicial Department imposed a two-year suspension of an attorney convicted of felony false statements to the FBI during an interview conducted as part of a bribery investigation. The attorney was sentenced to probation and fined $25,000. He was suspended on an interim basis in New Jersey. The court here concluded

Although quite serious, respondent's conviction is mitigated by his otherwise laudable personal background and prior excellent professional reputation both as an architect and lawyer. Additionally, he voluntarily and expeditiously disclosed to the United States attorney's Office that he had made the false statements and thereafter provided extensive and effective cooperation with the government's local corruption investigations. Notably, the sentencing judge extended significant leniency to respondent on account of such cooperation.

The attorney reported that his architect's license was suspended for three years but that the suspension was stayed. (Mike Frisch)