Disciplinary Actions – 3/26/14

The Indiana Supreme Court Disciplinary Commission brings charges against attorneys who have violated the state’s rules for admission to the bar and Rules of Professional Conduct. The Indiana Commission on Judicial Qualifications brings charges against judges, judicial officers, or judicial candidates for misconduct. Details of attorneys’ and judges’ actions for which they are being disciplined by the Supreme Court will be included unless they are not a matter of public record under the court’s rules.

Contempt of Court
Patricia S. Beecher, of Lake County, was found in contempt of court March 6 by the Indiana Supreme Court for continuing to represent clients after her license was suspended. She was suspended Aug. 8, 2013, from the practice of law for disability. Beecher represented clients in Merrillville Town Court while suspended and told the judge that her suspension did not take effect for 45 days. She had discussed with her attorney filing a petition for additional time to close her practice, but she did not know whether her suspension date had in fact been postponed when she told the judge she could practice. The justices ordered Beecher to pay $300. Justice Rucker declined to find her in contempt, believing Beecher’s action was simply a matter of miscommunication between her and her attorney.

Resignation
Ronald W. Frazier, of Marion County, has resigned from the bar, effective March 6. Any disciplinary proceedings pending against him are dismissed as moot. He must wait five years to petition for reinstatement and the costs of the proceeding are assessed against him.

Clark W. Holesinger, of Porter County, has resigned from the bar, effective March 12. Any disciplinary proceedings pending against him are dismissed as moot. He must wait five years to petition for reinstatement and the costs of the proceeding are assessed against him.