In the Matter of Francis L. Carrao, an Attorney

In the Matter of Francis L. Carrao, an Attorney. First Department, December 30, 1915. Attorney at law censured—writing letter reflecting upon judicial action of justice. Attorney at law severely censured for writing a letter to a justice of the Municipal Court, in relation to an action against him, personally, in said court, impugning the motives of the justice, charging him with improper judicial action and containing reflections upon other justices of the court. Charges against an attorney by the Association of the Bar of the City of New York. Einar Chrystie, for the petitioner. Francis L. Carrao, respondent, in person. [MAJORITY — Per Curiam:] Per Curiam: The offense charged against the respondent is writing a letter to a justice of the Municipal Court impugning his motives, charging him with improper judicial action, and containing reflections upon other justices of the Municipal Court. The respondent admits the writing of the letter, says that it was in relation to an action against him personally in the court, in which he felt himself aggrieved, apologizes for the letter, and expresses regret that it was sent. Under the circumstances, we deem it sufficient to express our disapproval of the action of any attorney of this court, whether representing a client or as a party to an action, in writing a letter to the court which impugns its impartiality or reflects upon the judicial action of the judge to whom the letter is written or other justices of the court. The jurisdiction of the court to take action on such a complaint is beyond question. (Matter of Manheim, 113 App. Div. 136; Matter of Rockmore, 127 id. 499.) The act upon which the charges were based was committed in this judicial district, and the respondent is an attorney of the Supreme Court of the State of New York and is responsible, not only in the district in which he lives, but also in any district in which he is guilty of professional misconduct. The respondent is, therefore, severely censured for his conduct. Present—Ingraham, P. J., McLaughlin, Clarke, Scott and Smith, JJ. Respondent censured. Order to be settled on notice.