On Thursday, June 5, 2025, the New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Judicial Department granted a motion by the Attorney Grievance Committee (AGC) to suspend attorney William David Perry from practicing law for one year, effective 30 days from the date of the order. Perry was convicted on September 22, 2022, of two counts of second-degree criminal contempt, three counts of fourth-degree stalking, and first-degree harassment. His conviction was upheld on appeal on October 8, 2024.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of William D. Perry,” with case no. 2023-02705.
The charges stemmed from Perry’s violation of two protective orders issued in favor of his former girlfriend and cohabitant. Using approximately 17 fake social media accounts, Perry posted content designed to appear as if it came from his former girlfriend. He also shared information about the prosecutor handling a prior domestic violence case against him, as well as the prosecutor’s mother, who was unrelated to the case. Following his conviction, Perry was sentenced to three years’ probation, and additional protective orders were issued for his former girlfriend, the prosecutor, and the prosecutor’s mother.
The AGC classified Perry’s offenses as “serious crimes” under Judiciary Law § 90(4)(d), leading to a sanction hearing in July 2024. The appointed Referee recommended a six-month suspension, citing Perry’s disregard for court orders, lack of remorse, and inclusion of the prosecutor and his mother in his posts as aggravating factors. Mitigating factors included character letters and Perry’s educational and professional background. However, the court found the six-month suspension too lenient, citing the severity of Perry’s actions, his prior domestic violence-related guilty plea to disorderly conduct, and his failure to accept responsibility.
Perry opposed the AGC’s motion, arguing he lacked sufficient time to submit a post-hearing brief due to a tight deadline and other legal matters. The court rejected this claim, noting multiple extensions were granted.
The suspension bars Perry from practicing law, appearing in court, or offering legal advice during the one-year period. He must also comply with rules for suspended attorneys and return any secure court pass.
The Disposition states:
“Wherefore, it is Ordered that the Referee’s recommendation of a six-month suspension is disaffirmed, and the motion by the Attorney Grievance Committee for the First Judicial Department confirming the Referee’s Report and Recommendation, pursuant to 22 NYCRR 603.8-a(t)(4), and is granted to the extent of suspending respondent William David Perry from the practice of law in the State of New York for one year, effective 30 days from the date of this Order, and until further order of this Court.”
According to Avvo.com, Mr. Perry is an attorney in New York, New York. He attended the New York University School of Law. He acquired his law license in New York in 2013.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
