Published: August 1, 2025
Attorney Ernest Friedman (P26642) of Farmington Hills, Michigan, has been suspended from the practice of law for 180 days, effective October 18, 2024, following a disciplinary proceeding that revealed multiple violations of professional conduct rules. The suspension arises from two unrelated incidents: one involving mismanagement of client funds in an IOLTA account, and the other stemming from violations related to a prior suspension.
Overview of the Disciplinary Proceedings
In Case No. 23-84-GA, the Tri-County Hearing Panel #57 conducted hearings under MCR 9.115 and found Friedman engaged in serious professional misconduct, violating multiple provisions of the Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct (MRPC) and Michigan Court Rules (MCR).
Count One: IOLTA Mismanagement
The panel found that Friedman:
- Failed to promptly deliver client or third-party funds as required, and did not render an accounting when requested, violating MRPC 1.15(b)(3);
- Co-mingled client funds with personal funds, contrary to MRPC 1.15(d);
- Improperly deposited excess personal funds into his IOLTA account, beyond what was reasonably necessary to cover service fees, in violation of MRPC 1.15(f).
Count Two: Violations Following Prior Suspension
The second count related to Friedman’s suspension in a prior case (Grievance Administrator v. Ernest Friedman, 18-37-GA). The panel found that he:
- Failed to notify active clients of his suspension via certified mail, as required by MCR 9.119(A);
- Did not file the required notices of disqualification with courts and opposing parties, violating MCR 9.119(B);
- Filed a false affidavit in an attempt to regain his law license, in violation of MCR 9.123(A).
Additionally, Friedman’s conduct was found to violate MCR 9.104(1)-(4) and MRPC 8.4(a) and (c), which govern attorney honesty, integrity, and fitness to practice.
Appeal and Final Ruling
Friedman filed a petition for review and a petition for a stay of the suspension. However, the Attorney Discipline Board denied the stay on October 17, 2024. Following further review under MCR 9.118, the Board affirmed the 180-day suspension, while modifying some of the hearing panel’s findings.
Costs and Penalties
Friedman has been assessed $3,598.59 in costs related to the disciplinary proceedings. His suspension will remain in effect until further action is taken in accordance with Michigan’s attorney reinstatement procedures.
Why This Matters
This case serves as a critical reminder to attorneys of the high fiduciary standards required when managing client funds, and the strict procedural obligations that follow any form of suspension or disqualification. Mismanagement, even after a prior disciplinary event, is treated with increasing seriousness and can lead to escalating consequences—including longer suspensions and reputational damage.
