In a significant ruling, the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of the State of New York has suspended attorney Anokye S. Blissett for two years due to multiple charges of professional misconduct. The decision affects Blissett's ability to practice law and raises important questions about the management of client funds by attorneys.
The case, known as the Matter of Blissett, was decided on August 19, 2026, under docket number 2021-09621. Blissett, who was admitted to the bar in 2007, faced seven charges related to the misuse of her escrow accounts. This ruling underscores the responsibilities attorneys have in managing client funds and the consequences of failing to uphold these duties.
Background
The Grievance Committee for the Second, Eleventh, and Thirteenth Judicial Districts initiated a disciplinary proceeding against Blissett in February 2023. The committee accused her of misappropriating client funds and failing to maintain proper bookkeeping records. The charges stemmed from her management of two escrow accounts at Chase Bank, which she used for both personal and professional transactions.
Blissett's troubles began when she was retained by her aunt, Earline Nelson, for the sale of Nelson's marital home. The committee found that Blissett mishandled the down payment from this transaction, using funds from her escrow accounts inappropriately. The case was referred to Special Referee Randall T. Eng, who conducted a hearing and ultimately sustained all seven charges against Blissett.
The Ruling
The court ruled that Blissett's actions constituted serious violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct. The judges, including Hector D. Lasalle and Mark C. Dillon, noted, "The respondent knowingly and intentionally failed to honor her obligations as a fiduciary until the Grievance Committee's investigation." The court confirmed the findings of the Special Referee, who emphasized that Blissett's violations were not those of a novice practitioner.
In its decision, the court highlighted Blissett's misuse of her escrow accounts, stating that she treated them as personal bank accounts for several years. The ruling detailed how she deposited non-fiduciary funds into these accounts and failed to maintain proper records, leading to ongoing deficiencies. As a result, the court suspended Blissett from practicing law for two years, effective September 18, 2026.
Impact
This ruling has significant implications for Blissett's legal career and serves as a cautionary tale for other attorneys. The suspension not only halts her ability to practice law but also raises awareness about the importance of ethical conduct in the legal profession. Attorneys are expected to manage client funds with the utmost integrity, and this case illustrates the severe consequences of failing to do so.
Moreover, the decision reinforces the need for attorneys to adhere strictly to the Rules of Professional Conduct, particularly regarding the handling of escrow accounts. It sets a precedent that emphasizes the accountability of legal professionals in managing client funds and maintaining accurate financial records.
What's Next
Blissett has the option to appeal the court's decision, but she must first serve her suspension. She may apply for reinstatement no earlier than March 20, 2028, provided she meets specific conditions outlined by the court. This includes demonstrating compliance with the rules governing suspended attorneys and maintaining continuing legal education requirements.