Florida Supreme Court punishes eight lawyers for misconduct

The Florida Supreme Court, supported by the Florida Bar, has imposed disciplinary actions on eight attorneys for various misconduct issues within their legal practices. Among those disciplined, two attorneys had their licenses revoked, five received suspensions, and one was issued a formal reprimand. These penalties are pending finalization until the respective lawyers' opportunities to request additional hearings expire, according to a Florida Bar announcement. The most severe case involves A. Marie Delapena from Clermont, who was convicted of 15 counts of wire fraud and 22 counts of bank fraud. The court suspended her license and ordered a referee to recommend further sanctions for her misconduct. Although her conviction occurred on June 20, her sentencing is scheduled for September 3. Michael Halla from Lancaster, Texas, received a 30-day suspension after being convicted of two counts of criminal negligent homicide in Ellis County, Texas. Zachary Harrington, practicing in Tampa, was temporarily suspended on August 18 after court findings revealed he misappropriated a settlement amounting to $20,000—$14,000 designated for a client and $6,000 for his fees—by depositing the funds...