On Wednesday, February 15, 2023, the State of Michigan Attorney Disciplinary Board issued a Notice of Suspension against attorney Paul Bukowski for fraud.

The case is entitled “In the matter of Paul Bukowski” with case no. 22-54-GA.

The Charges cited Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct 8.4(b), 8.4(c), Michigan Criminal Law 9.104(1), MCR 9.104(2), and MCR 9.104(3) which state:

Engaged in conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit, misrepresentation, or violation of the criminal law, where such conduct reflects adversely on the lawyer’s honesty,. trustworthiness, or fitness as a lawyer.

Engaged in conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice.

Engaged in conduct that exposes the legal profession or the courts to obloquy, contempt, censure, or reproach.

Engaged in conduct contrary to justice, ethics, honesty, or good morals.

The Rules of Professional Conduct can be found here.

A Stipulation regarding the Misconduct Sanction in which the respondent admitted factual allegations were filed by Attorney Bukowski and the Grievance Administrator. Allegedly, the Respondent engaged in conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit, misrepresentation, or violation of the Criminal Law.

The Panel found out that while the respondent was employed by Macomb County Prosecutor Eric J. Smith, the Respondent already suspected that Smith was converting money from his campaign funds for his personal use, which is illegal. Despite the suspicion, the respondent received a check for 20$,000 from Smith using his campaign fund made payable to the respondent. The Respondent then endorsed the check and deposited it into his personal checking account. After a few days, he withdrew $15,000 and gave it to Smith as requested by the latter and retained the remaining $5,000. After 2016, Smith asked the respondent to lie to the authorities about what occurred.

Based on the admission of the respondent and the evidence that was presented at the hearing, the panel found that the respondent violated the abovementioned rules.

The Disposition states:

“The panel ordered that the respondent’s license to practice law be suspended for a period of 179 days Costs were assessed in the amount of 52.429.00”

As of today, Mr. Bukowski is listed on the website of the Macomb Law Group as a practicing attorney. He practices in Clinton Township, Michigan. He is licensed in Michigan. His info can be found on lawyer.com.

A copy of the original filing can be found here.