On Friday, January 19, 2024, the Indiana Supreme Court suspended Attorney Michael P. Irk from practicing law for 30 days, starting April 1, 2024.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Michael P. Irk,” with case no. 23S-DI-385.
The charges cited Indiana Rules of Professional Conduct 3.3(a)(1), 8.4(c) and 8.4(d), which states:
Knowingly making a false statement of fact to a tribunal.
Engaging in conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation.
Engaging in conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice.
The Rules of Professional Conduct can be found here.
According to the Court order, Irk admitted to cutting and pasting the signature of an adoption agency director onto legal documents without her permission in 2021 while representing adoptive parents. The signature was falsely notarized. The Court found Irk’s actions violated legal conduct rules prohibiting dishonesty, deceit misrepresentation, and conduct prejudicial to the justice system.
The 30-day suspension was proposed by the Indiana Supreme Court Disciplinary Commission and Irk. Chief Justice Loretta Rush and Justice Goff dissented, arguing the punishment was too lenient. They said forging a signature seriously undermines public trust in the legal profession. Upon completing his suspension, Irk will be automatically reinstated to practicing law.
The Disposition states:
“For Respondent’s professional misconduct, the Court suspends Respondent from the practice of law for a period of 30 days, beginning April 1, 2024.”
According to avvo.com, Mr. Irk is an attorney in Zionsville, Indiana. He acquired his law license in Indiana in 2000.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
