On Tuesday, January 14, 2025, the Supreme Court of New Jersey suspended Attorney Santo V. Artusa, Jr. from practicing law for a period of three months. This decision follows recommendations from the Disciplinary Review Board after Artusa was found to have violated several rules of professional conduct.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Santo V. Artusa Jr.,” with case no. 089934.
The charges cited New Jersey Rules of Professional Conduct 1.3, 1.4(b), 1.4(c), 3.2, and 8.1(b).
Artusa has been under suspension since August 21, 2023. The recent decision stems from a series of infractions that included a lack of diligence, failure to communicate with clients, and refusal to cooperate with disciplinary authorities. Specifically, he was found to have violated RPC by failing to act with reasonable diligence in representing his clients. Additionally, RPC 1.4(b) and RPC 1.4(c) were breached as he did not keep clients informed about the status of their matters nor did he adequately explain the necessary information to enable informed decisions about their representation.
The charges against Artusa were outlined in the DRB’s decision, which was certified to the Supreme Court under Rule 1:20-4(f) due to Artusa’s default in responding to the allegations. The board’s findings indicated that Artusa had consistently failed to take appropriate actions in his clients’ cases, resulting in significant delays and complications.
Furthermore, Artusa was cited for violating RPC 3.2, which requires attorneys to expedite litigation under their clients’ interests. His failure to do so led to detrimental consequences for his clients, including the risk of dismissal of their cases.
In addition to these violations, Artusa was found to have violated RPC 8.1(b) by not cooperating with the disciplinary investigation. The board noted that despite multiple opportunities to respond to inquiries and provide necessary documentation, he did not engage in the disciplinary process.
As part of the Supreme Court’s order, Artusa is required to practice law under the supervision of a proctor for a minimum of two years upon his reinstatement. The order mandates that he adhere to Rule 1:20-20, which outlines the obligations of suspended attorneys. This includes compliance with the Affidavit of Compliance requirements, failure of which could lead to further disciplinary actions and delays in any potential reinstatement.
The Disposition states:
“It is ORDERED that Santo V. Artusa, Jr. is suspended from the practice of law for a period of three months, and until further order of the Court, effective immediately.”
According to avvo.com, Mr. Artusa Jr. is a divorce and separation attorney in Jersey City, New Jersey. He acquired his law license in New Jersey in 2009.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
