On Wednesday, January 28, 2026, the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania disbarred Attorney Michael J. Sangemino from practicing law in the Commonwealth. The disbarment was enacted upon consideration of Sangemino’s verified statement of resignation.
The case is entitled “Office of Disciplinary Counsel v. Michael J. Sangemino,” with case no. 92 DB 2024.
The action follows a series of disciplinary measures initiated against Sangemino. According to a document filed with the Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, on September 16, 2024, the Office of Disciplinary Counsel (ODC) filed a Petition for Issuance of a Rule to Show Cause, questioning why Sangemino should not be placed on temporary suspension. This petition was connected to ODC files C2-24-721, C2-24-795, and C2-24-861.
Subsequently, on September 17, 2024, the Disciplinary Board Chair John Rafferty issued an order and rule to show cause. Sangemino failed to respond to this order, leading to a temporary suspension imposed by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, effective December 18, 2024.
Sangemino also failed to file a verified statement with the Disciplinary Board, as required by Pa.R.D.E. 217(e)(1). His resignation signifies his departure as a member of the Bar of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. He acknowledged that his resignation was voluntary and that he was fully aware of its implications, having consulted with legal counsel.
Sangemino’s resignation comes amid an investigation into allegations of misconduct. He acknowledged that material facts in Attachment A, upon which the complaints are predicated, are true. He is also aware of pending disciplinary proceedings related to his criminal conviction in the Chester County Court of Common Pleas, case number CP-15-CR-0002181-2025, concerning breach of fiduciary duties and theft of client funds.
Sangemino pleaded guilty on December 18, 2025, to multiple felony and misdemeanor counts, including theft, dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities, and forgery. He acknowledged that he could not successfully defend himself against charges of professional misconduct within the disciplinary system.
Sangemino will be required to comply with provisions outlined in Pa.R.D.E. 217, including those related to notice, withdrawal, resignation, trust accounts, and ceasing practice. He must also file a verified statement of compliance as required by Pa.R.D.E. 217(e)(1).
The Disposition states:
“AND NOW, this 28th day of January, 2026, upon consideration of the Verified Statement of Resignation, Michael J. Sangemino is disbarred on consent from the Bar of this Commonwealth. See Pa.R.D.E. 215. Respondent shall comply with the provisions of Pa.R.D.E. 217 and pay costs to the Disciplinary Board.”
According to Avvo.com, Mr. Sangemino acquired his law license in Pennsylvania in 2000.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
