The Vermont Supreme Court has placed attorney Stephen Girdwood on immediate interim suspension due to serious misconduct. Girdwood, who is licensed to practice law in Vermont, was found to have violated several rules of professional conduct while practicing in New Hampshire. This decision affects Girdwood's ability to practice law and highlights the importance of ethical standards in the legal profession.
The court's ruling comes after the New Hampshire Supreme Court determined that Girdwood mishandled funds that he was supposed to hold in escrow. He admitted to the allegations against him, which included misappropriating client funds and failing to disclose his actions to opposing counsel. This case is significant as it underscores the accountability of attorneys and the potential repercussions of unethical behavior.
Stephen Girdwood was the sole respondent in this case, as the Office of Disciplinary Counsel in Vermont sought to address the consequences of his actions in New Hampshire. The Vermont Supreme Court received notice of Girdwood's suspension in January 2026 and began its proceedings shortly thereafter. The court's decision to impose an identical suspension reflects its commitment to maintaining high standards of professional conduct among attorneys.
The dispute arose when the New Hampshire Supreme Court found that Girdwood had violated multiple rules of professional conduct, including mishandling escrow funds and making false statements to opposing counsel. Specifically, he was found to have committed a criminal act and to have engaged in dishonest conduct, which are serious violations in the legal field. The Vermont Supreme Court's decision to suspend him was based on these findings, as well as the absence of any claims from Girdwood or the disciplinary counsel that the suspension would be unwarranted.
The court ruled, "Finding no basis in the record to conclude that the imposition of identical discipline in this State would be unwarranted, we hereby place respondent on immediate interim suspension status." This statement reflects the court's view that Girdwood's actions warranted immediate disciplinary action, reinforcing the principle that attorneys must adhere to ethical standards.
In addition to the immediate suspension, Girdwood is required to comply with the requirements set forth in Administrative Order 9, Rule 27. This order outlines the procedures and responsibilities for attorneys who are suspended, ensuring that they do not engage in the practice of law during the suspension period. The court's ruling emphasizes the importance of protecting the public and maintaining trust in the legal profession.
The impact of this ruling extends beyond Girdwood himself. It serves as a reminder to all attorneys about the consequences of unethical behavior and the importance of adhering to professional conduct rules. The decision reinforces the notion that attorneys are held to high standards and that violations will result in serious repercussions.
This case may also set a precedent for future disciplinary actions in Vermont. By imposing an identical suspension based on the findings from another jurisdiction, the court has established a clear process for handling similar cases in the future. It demonstrates that the Vermont Supreme Court takes allegations of misconduct seriously and is willing to act swiftly to protect the integrity of the legal profession.
Looking ahead, Girdwood has the option to appeal the decision. However, details about any potential appeal or related cases were not available in the court filing. The outcome of this case may influence how similar cases are handled in the future, as it highlights the importance of ethical behavior in the legal community.