A local attorney is facing probation from a State Bar Court of
California recommendation for sexual misconduct with two women he
represented years ago as public defender.
Hollister – A local attorney is facing probation from a State Bar Court of California recommendation for sexual misconduct with two women he represented years ago as public defender.
Patrick Marshall could be placed on two years of probation for sexual misconduct with two of his clients, one in 1995 and another in 2001, according to a State Bar Court of California decision. Marshall resigned as a San Benito County public defender in February 2001, according to the county administrative office at the time.
“I deeply regret what I did,” Marshall said when reached at his office Thursday morning.
According to the State Bar Court’s decision, Marshall began a sexual relationship in 1995 with a client being held at the San Benito County Jail. On at least two occasions, the woman performed oral sex on Marshall in the jail, according to the decision.
In 2001, the San Benito County Sheriff’s Office began a criminal investigation of Marshall for “improper behavior” with a client, the Free Lance reported at the time.
The State Bar Court found that on Jan. 5, 2001, Marshall acted inappropriately with a female client in the jail, according to its decision. Sexual relations included “hugging (the woman), patting her buttocks,” the State Bar Court decision stated.
In May, the State Bar Court of California concluded Marshall committed four violations – which he admitted to – including two acts of moral turpitude and two acts of employed coercion, intimidation or undue influence, according to its decision.
But because Marshall had no record of prior discipline for 20 years – he was admitted to the state bar in 1975 – and voluntarily entered into treatment programs, the State Bar Court recommended in July that he be placed on probation instead of a suspension, according to the decision.
One of those treatment programs was attending 12-step meetings, according to the court.
“It’s certainly something I’ve address,” Marshall said. “It’s not something that’s going to happen again. I have good mental and physical health.”
Marshall said he had a “tough time a few years ago.”
As for a potential probation, Marshall had this to say: “I’m not complaining. I’m still practicing law and will continue to practice law.”
