On Tuesday, May 6, 2025, the Supreme Court of Ohio entered an immediate interim remedial suspension against Attorney Matthew E. Exton, barring him from practicing law in the state. The decision, prompted by a motion from the Toledo Bar Association filed on May 1, 2025, cited allegations that Exton’s conduct violated the Ohio Rules of Professional Conduct and posed a substantial threat of serious harm to the public.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Matthew E. Exton,” with case no. 2025-0602.
The court’s order prohibits Exton from engaging in any legal practice, including appearing in court, counseling clients, or preparing legal documents. He is also stripped of all rights and privileges typically afforded to a licensed attorney in good standing. To comply with the suspension, Exton must notify all clients and co-counsel of his disqualification within 30 days, advise clients to seek alternative legal representation, and return any client property or unearned fees. Additionally, he is required to inform opposing counsel or parties in ongoing litigation of his suspension and file notices of disqualification with relevant courts or agencies.
Exton must also reimburse any amounts awarded by the Lawyer’s Fund for Client Protection within 90 days of the court’s order or any future awards. During the suspension, he must complete one credit hour of continuing legal education per month, including one credit hour of professional conduct instruction every six months. Reinstatement to practice law in Ohio is contingent upon Exton meeting all requirements outlined in the Supreme Court Rules for the Government of the Bar of Ohio and complying with all court orders.
The court further ordered Exton to submit an affidavit within 30 days confirming compliance with these directives, including proof of service for all required notices. He must maintain records of his compliance and keep the court, the Toledo Bar Association, and disciplinary counsel updated on his address for communications. The suspension remains in effect pending the final resolution of disciplinary proceedings related to the alleged misconduct.
The Disposition states:
“Upon consideration thereof and pursuant to Gov.Bar R. it is ordered and decreed that an interim remedial suspension is immediately entered against Matthew E. Exton, Attorney Registration No. 0084072, last known business address in Sylvania, Ohio, and that the suspension be effective as of the date of this entry, pending final disposition of disciplinary proceedings predicated on the conduct that threatens serious harm.”
According to Avvo.com, Mr. Exton is a divorce and separation attorney in Fremont, Ohio. He attended the University of Toledo College of Law, graduating in 2008. He acquired his law license in Ohio in the same year.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
