Ohio Attorney Who Had Sex With Client Gets Suspended

An Akron, Ohio, lawyer who slept with a client while representing her and continued the relationship for several years after that case ended was suspended for a year by the state high court.

The Ohio Supreme Court stayed the suspension, however, agreeing with attorney Matthew Fortado that this was a more appropriate sanction than the six-month stay its board of professional conduct had recommended.

It explained that its reasoning was based on the “unique” facts of the case as well as Fortado’s cooperation and strong character.

Professional conduct rules forbid attorneys from engaging in sexual relationships with clients when no ...