MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—The Ohio Supreme Court’s Board of Professional Conduct has Issued its recommendations regarding the future of Marion Attorney Jack VanBibber.
The Board held it’s hearing on October 23rd to hear evidence against VanBibber including:
Inappropriate Relationships: He allegedly engaged in a sexual relationship with a client, violating ethical guidelines and lying about the timeline of this relationship during court proceedings.
Sending Inappropriate Messages: VanBibber reportedly sent sexually explicit messages to the significant other of another client, further demonstrating a disregard for professional boundaries.
Failure to Appear: He missed two court hearings related to a custody case and did not file a motion to appear via Zoom, subsequently misrepresenting the reasons for his absence during later court appearances.
False Statements: VanBibber is accused of making misleading statements regarding his absences from hearings and failing to cooperate with investigations into his conduct, including ignoring multiple requests for information from the Disciplinary Counsel.
VanBibber is actively practicing while he serves a two year stayed (paused) suspension that was imposed in May of 2024 due to precious violations of professional conduct.
In their ruling on the latest allegations, a three person panel said:
“The Board voted to adopt the findings of fact, conclusions of law and recommendations of the hearing panel and recommends that the Respondent, Jack Herchel VanBibber, be suspended from law for a period of two years.”
For the foreseeable future, VanBibber can continue to practice law. The Ohio Supreme Court will make the final ruling on the exact discipline VanBibber will receive.
Marion County Now will continue to follow this developing story.