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Toledo Attorney Suspended

01-388. Disciplinary Counsel v. France.
On Certified Report by the Board of Commissioners on Grievances and Discipline of the Supreme Court, No. 00-50.
John Stephen France is suspended from the practice of law for two years, with conditions.
Moyer, C.J., Douglas, Resnick, F.E. Sweeney, Pfeifer, Cook and Lundberg Stratton, JJ., concur.
Opinion: http://www.sconet.state.oh.us/rod/newpdf/0/2001/2001-ohio-1298.pdf

The Supreme Court voted 7-0 to suspend the law license of a Toledo man found in violation of professional conduct rules by a panel of disciplinary commissioners in February. John Stephen France was cited for mishandling an imprisoned client's funds and failing to account for disbursements from her bank account, over which he had power of attorney. According to court documents. France obtained the power of attorney fraudulently, notarizing it after it was sent to him already signed by his client. The court suspended France's license for two years, but said he could apply for probation and have his license reinstated after one year, provided he meets certain conditions. France must return his client's files, repay her whatever monies an auditor determines he owes her, and take courses in office management and accounting to qualify for probation. The court's opinion also orders the Board of Commissioners on Grievances and Discipline to refer France's abuse of his commission to notary officials.

Contacts
Jonathan E. Coughlan, 614.461.0256, for the Office Disciplinary Counsel.