The Wisconsin Supreme Court has suspended attorney Stephanie G. Rapkin from practicing law for one year due to multiple counts of professional misconduct. The court's decision, issued on September 17, 2026, comes after Rapkin failed to respond to allegations related to her handling of an estate and a disorderly conduct conviction. This ruling affects her ability to practice law and serves as a warning to other attorneys about the consequences of unethical behavior.
The case, identified as Office of Lawyer Regulation v. Stephanie G. Rapkin (Docket No. 2024AP002265-D), began when the Office of Lawyer Regulation (OLR) filed a complaint against Rapkin in November 2024. The complaint detailed six counts of misconduct, including improper billing practices, lack of communication with clients, and a criminal conviction stemming from an incident during a protest.
Rapkin was admitted to the Wisconsin bar in 1982 and had no prior disciplinary history before this case. However, her license faced administrative suspensions for failing to pay dues and file necessary certifications. The OLR's complaint highlighted her role as the personal representative for the estate of N.H.B., where she allegedly charged excessive fees without a valid agreement and failed to fulfill her duties adequately. Additionally, Rapkin was accused of not keeping the trustee informed about the estate's status and eventually being removed from her position.
The misconduct allegations also included a serious incident where Rapkin was convicted of misdemeanor disorderly conduct after spitting in the face of a teenager during a protest. This incident raised significant concerns about her fitness to practice law.
The court ruled that Rapkin was in default after she failed to respond to the OLR's complaint and did not appear at the hearing regarding the motion for default judgment. The referee, Edward E. Leineweber, recommended a one-year suspension, stating that Rapkin's actions were “almost certainly” intentional and that her behavior during the protest was “extreme” and “repugnant.” The court agreed with the referee's findings and concluded that a suspension was warranted.
The court ruled, "We trust that this is a sufficient period of time to impress upon Attorney Rapkin and other members of the bar that the type of conduct proven here will not be tolerated."
In addition to the suspension, Rapkin was ordered to pay the full costs of the proceedings, totaling $3,164.77. The court emphasized that the misconduct caused injury to her clients and undermined public confidence in the legal profession. The ruling serves as a reminder of the ethical standards expected of attorneys and the consequences of failing to adhere to those standards.
This decision impacts not only Rapkin but also other attorneys in Wisconsin, highlighting the importance of maintaining professionalism and ethical conduct in the legal field. The court's ruling reinforces the principle that attorneys must communicate effectively with clients and adhere to billing practices that are fair and transparent.
Looking ahead, Rapkin has the option to appeal the court's decision, but as of now, no appeal has been filed. Additionally, there is a pending appeal related to the probate court's denial of her claim for payment of services rendered to the estate. This ongoing case may further complicate her legal situation and affect her future in the legal profession.