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Maui attorney James H. Fosbinder was placed on “involuntary inactive status” Friday by the state Supreme Court due to “mental or physical illness or disability,” according to the Office of Disciplinary Counsel.
The news release Friday from the disciplinary counsel’s office said that Fosbinder, 61, cannot handle or accept retainers, clients or legal matters.
“The public is cautioned that Mr. Fosbinder will remain on involuntary inactive status and will not be eligible to practice law until further order of the Supreme Court,” the news release said.
An examination by a court-appointed neuropsychologist has been completed, and the Office of Disciplinary Counsel is awaiting the report, according to Fosbinder’s wife, Rhonda.
While in inactive status, the Disciplinary Counsel Office will suspend investigation into complaints involving Fosbinder, who was admitted to the Hawaii bar on May 29, 1998, the petition said.
“My husband has been a passionate and well-respected plaintiff’s attorney and civil rights activist for 30 years, including 17 years on Maui,” Rhonda Fosbinder said Friday.
He retired from practice July 18 and notice was given to his clients, she said.