July 23, 2009
Coughlan Named President of National Disciplinary Association
Jonathan E. Coughlan, disciplinary counsel for the Supreme Court of Ohio Office of Disciplinary Counsel, becomes president of the Association of Judicial Disciplinary Counsel at the conclusion of the group’s annual meeting this week.
The association works to improve the effectiveness of judicial disciplinary organizations and to promote the professional interests of those who are engaged in the field of judicial discipline. After serving as an association board member for several years, Coughlan will serve a one-year term as head of the organization. He replaces Steven Scheckman of the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct.
As one of three affiliated offices that helps the Supreme Court exercise its constitutional responsibility to oversee the practice of law in Ohio, the Office of Disciplinary Counsel investigates and prosecutes allegations of misconduct against lawyers and judges throughout the state before the Board of Commissioners on Grievances & Discipline.
Coughlan, the fifth person to hold this position since the office was created in 1977, has served as disciplinary counsel for nearly 12 years. Previously, he served as assistant district attorney in Erie County, N.Y., as an assistant public defender in Manchester, N.H., and as an assistant public defender in Cuyahoga County. He also practiced law in a civil and criminal litigation practice in New Hampshire.
Coughlan earned his law degree from the Case Western Reserve University School of Law in 1978.
Contact: Chris Davey or Bret Crow, 614.387.9250.