Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court
In the Matter of Hayes
November 10, 2023
Summary
The court affirmed the respondent attorney's disbarment after concluding that substantial evidence supported findings that he participated in a fraudulent scheme to conceal a client's lottery winnings, violated court orders, filed a frivolous bankruptcy petition, and misused client funds through undisclosed and excessive charges. The court also held that the cumulative misconduct, together with significant aggravating factors and no mitigation, justified disbarment. The board's recommendation received substantial deference, while the sanction itself was reviewed de novo for marked disparity.