Arizona Supreme Court: No. SB-22-0056-AP Filed Date: March 11, 2024
In the Matter of Lise R. Witt
This case involves attorney discipline proceedings against Lise R. Witt for unauthorized contact with her client’s co-defendant, who was in custody and represented by counsel.
The Court suspended Witt from the practice of law for 120 days, imposed two years of probation with additional continuing legal education requirements, and ordered payment of costs.
- Whether Witt violated ER 4.1a (Truthfulness in Statements to Others)
Opinion: The Court found clear and convincing evidence that Witt knowingly violated ER 4.1(a) by falsely writing “attorney” on a jail visitation form. - Whether Witt violated ER 4.4a (Respect for Rights of Others)
Opinion: The Court concluded Witt violated ER 4.4(a) by obtaining an affidavit from a represented party without her attorney’s knowledge, interfering with that attorney-client relationship. - Whether Witt violated ER 8.4(c) (Misconduct involving dishonesty)
Opinion: The Court found clear and convincing evidence that Witt violated ER 8.4(c) by misrepresenting her relationship to the co-defendant on the jail form. - Mental state for violations of ERs 4.2 and 8.4(d)
Opinion: The Court disagreed with the panel’s finding of negligence and concluded Witt’s violations were done knowingly. - Appropriate sanction
Opinion: The Court determined suspension was appropriate given the knowing nature of the violations and other factors.