On Thursday, September 21, 2023, the Supreme Court of Illinois issued an order suspending attorney Anthony V. Boyle from practicing law for two years, but stayed the suspension and placed him on four years of probation with strict conditions.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Anthony V. Boyle.”
In a petition to impose discipline on consent dated May 5, 2023, it was alleged that Boyle failed to provide diligent representation to several clients, communicate with clients, and make a misrepresentation about the status of one client matter. Boyle also failed to pursue his clients’ interests in various legal matters and did not return unearned fees totaling $21,500.
The recommended sanction was consistent with sanctions imposed by the Court in cases involving comparable misconduct. The Administrator stated that Boyle’s conduct caused substantial inconvenience and monetary loss to multiple clients and involved dishonesty and a lack of integrity. The Administrator recommended a two-year suspension of Boyle’s license to practice law, stayed in favor of a four-year probation period, subject to conditions including restitution to the affected clients.
In its decision, the Supreme Court approved the recommendation to impose a two-year suspension of Boyle’s license to practice law, stayed in favor of a four-year probation period, subject to conditions. The conditions of Boyle’s probation focused on substance abuse treatment, restitution, and professional conduct oversight. He must abstain from alcohol and unprescribed drugs, submit to random testing, enroll in substance abuse programs, and regularly meet with mental health and primary care professionals. Boyle also needs to make restitution payments totaling $19,500 to four individuals.
Further terms require Boyle to attend probation meetings, submit quarterly reports, notify authorities of any address changes or criminal charges, and complete continuing legal education. He must enroll in a mentoring program and notify the Administrator of his assigned mentor. To monitor his recovery progress, Boyle’s treatment providers will update the Administrator quarterly and report any lapses.
The order stated probation will be revoked if any conditions are violated, resuming the two-year suspension. By imposing intensive probation aimed at Boyle’s underlying issues, the Court exhibited a willingness to allow rehabilitation if requirements were diligently followed. However, non-compliance would mean suspension of Boyle’s law license. The stringent requirements appear designed to protect the public and support Boyle’s recovery.
According to avvo.com, Mr. Boyle is a litigation attorney in Chicago, Illinois. He acquired his law license in Illinois in 2012.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
