Sarasota Attorney Disbarred: Shocking Theft of Over $1 Million Revealed!

DeSoto County, Florida, USA - In a surprising turn of events, the Florida Supreme Court has taken decisive action against the ethical failings of legal professionals in the Twelfth Judicial Circuit, where 19 attorneys have faced disciplinary measures since 2020. This trend highlights the ongoing scrutiny of legal conduct across the Sunshine State, as the Supreme Court maintains its commitment to uphold legal standards and protect the public interest. Among those disciplined is Sarasota attorney William Schlotthauer, who was recently disbarred for misappropriating over a million dollars of trust funds.

According to Herald Tribune, Schlotthauer’s disbarment, effective immediately following a June 26 order, stems from allegations filed by the Florida Bar that he unlawfully diverted at least $1,061,499 from two trusts. His case is particularly striking, emblematic of a troubling trend as the number of disciplined attorneys grows across the region. Since 2020, five lawyers within the circuit have faced disbarment, while many others are currently ineligible to practice law.

Disciplinary Landscape in the Twelfth Circuit

The disciplinary landscape in the Twelfth Judicial Circuit, which includes Sarasota, Manatee, and DeSoto counties, reflects a stern call for accountability. In total, actions have included various sanctions such as suspensions, public reprimands, and even probationary measures. Specifically, of the 19 attorneys disciplined, 11 are now unable to practice law in Florida, while only eight retain their good standing. The range of sanctions indicates that the Florida Bar and the Supreme Court are vigilant in responding to misconduct among the state’s legal practitioners.

The full list of disciplined attorneys paints a vivid picture of the challenges within the profession:

This situation sheds light on the broader issue of professional conduct and the responsibilities that come with practicing law. As reported by Palm Beach Post, the Florida Bar manages oversight for over 113,000 members and plays a crucial role in maintaining integrity within the legal community. This year alone, the Supreme Court has dispatched disciplinary actions against seven lawyers for various infractions ranging from neglect to misconduct.

How to Check an Attorney’s Standing

For those wishing to verify the status of an attorney or to file a complaint, the Florida Bar provides a useful directory to check an attorney’s discipline history. Complaints can be submitted via their website, allowing clients and peers to take an active stand in ensuring accountability and transparency. Notably, complaints against attorneys are kept on record for one year after a file is closed, regardless of whether they were dismissed.

In summary, as the Florida legal landscape faces scrutiny, the actions of the Florida Supreme Court serve as a reminder of the responsibility that attorneys bear. Maintaining ethical standards is not just advisable; it’s essential for the trust that clients place in their legal representatives. With ongoing vigilance, both the Supreme Court and the Florida Bar are working diligently to ensure that integrity prevails within Florida’s legal system.