Posted: June 30, 2023
Attorney John Lawrence McDonough (P68576) of Three Rivers, Michigan, has been publicly reprimanded with conditions following a misdemeanor conviction for impaired driving. The reprimand, issued by Kalamazoo County Hearing Panel #2 of the Attorney Discipline Board, became effective June 29, 2023.
Reprimand Stemming from Criminal Conviction
The disciplinary action follows McDonough’s guilty plea to impaired driving in Kalamazoo’s 8th District Court, in People v. John Lawrence McDonough, Case No. 08-774-SD. The conviction was based on a violation of Michigan Compiled Laws § 257.625(3)(a).
Pursuant to a Stipulation for Consent Order of Reprimand With Conditions filed jointly by McDonough and the Grievance Administrator, the Attorney Grievance Commission approved the agreement, which was subsequently accepted by the hearing panel.
McDonough admitted to the misconduct, and the panel found that by violating state criminal law, he had breached Michigan Court Rule 9.104(5), which governs attorney conduct relating to criminal convictions.
Read more coverage and analysis on McDonough here.
Sanctions and Conditions
As a result of the conviction and disciplinary violations:
- McDonough was formally reprimanded, a public disciplinary action short of suspension or disbarment.
- He was ordered to comply with specific conditions, designed to address the underlying conduct and prevent future violations.
- He was assessed costs totaling $938.51 in connection with the proceeding.
Maintaining Accountability in the Legal Profession
This case serves as a reminder that attorneys are held to high ethical standards both in and out of the courtroom. Violations of the law—even outside the scope of legal practice—can result in disciplinary action, including public censure and professional oversight.
While a reprimand is among the lesser sanctions available, it still carries significant weight in a lawyer’s professional record and may factor into future disciplinary matters.
We will continue to provide updates on matters of legal ethics and accountability in the Michigan legal community.
