On January 10, 2024, the Supreme Court of Washington issued an order suspending attorney Michael Olufemi Ewetuga from practicing law for six months followed by 24 months of probation for violating rules related to conflicts of interest with a client.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Michael Olufemi Ewetuga,” with case no. 202164-6.
The suspension stems from disciplinary proceedings conducted in 2023 by the Washington State Bar Association regarding Ewetuga’s conduct while representing a client.
On September 14, 2023, the Hearing Officer issued a decision finding Ewetuga engaged in misconduct during his 2018-2021 representation of client Marvalee Davidson regarding a motor vehicle accident settlement. Specifically, the Hearing Officer found Ewetuga violated Washington Rules of Professional Conduct by engaging in a sexual relationship with Davidson during the representation and failing to fully explain a reduction of his attorney fees.
Based on these violations of RPC 1.8(j)(1) and 1.4(b)/1.5(b), the Hearing Officer recommended a six-month suspension. The Disciplinary Board subsequently declined sua sponte review and adopted the Hearing Officer’s recommendation in a November 2023 order.
The Supreme Court then issued its January 10, 2024 Suspension Order affirming the six-month suspension period recommended earlier. The suspension is followed by 24 months of probation upon Ewetuga’s reinstatement to practice law.
According to avvo.com is a criminal defense attorney in Tacoma, Washington. He acquired his law license in Washington in 2006.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
