Divorce litigation often leads to contentious disputes, not only between spouses but also between their attorneys. In high-conflict cases involving financial disclosure, third-party subpoenas, and allegations of attorney misconduct, courts must determine whether a lawyer can continue to represent a client when personal knowledge of disputed facts may make the lawyer a necessary witness. A recent decision from a New York court illustrates how New York courts analyze these situations and the legal standards applied when attorney disqualification is on the table. If you intend to seek a divorce, it is essential to consult a New York divorce attorney as soon as possible to protect your interests.
Procedural History and Allegations
It is reported that the parties were engaged in divorce litigation in New York County when the husband’s attorney, who had submitted sworn affirmations with factual claims based on his personal knowledge, was disqualified by the trial court. The court, on its own motion, determined that the attorney had “inserted himself beyond the role of advocate” and had become a material and necessary witness in connection with claims related to equitable distribution and counsel fees. The court issued a stay of the proceedings to give the husband time to obtain new counsel.
It is further reported that the husband had issued subpoenas to multiple financial institutions seeking the bank records of a nonparty, who had some financial connection to the wife. The nonparty moved to quash the subpoenas, and the husband cross-moved to disqualify the nonparty’s attorney, enforce the subpoenas, and seek sanctions and attorney’s fees. The trial court granted the nonparty’s motion to quash and denied all aspects of the husband’s cross-motion. The husband appealed. Continue reading