Disciplinary hearing put on hold as longtime attorney Michael Callahan plans to end career
A prominent Summit County attorney and former prosecutor facing sexual misconduct allegations has announced his retirement from law practice, effectively halting disciplinary proceedings against him.
Michael Callahan, 68, informed the Ohio Board of Professional Conduct of his intent to retire, leading to the suspension of a disciplinary hearing that was scheduled for June 11-12. The case has been stayed pending an order from the Ohio Supreme Court, according to a May 20 filing.
“I am retiring from the practice of law. I will be 68 this year and my health has not been the best for the last few years,” Callahan said May 22 in a text message. “It was time.”
Legal Career Spanning Decades
Callahan has had a long career in Summit County’s legal system, serving as a former Summit County prosecutor, Summit County Common Pleas Court judge, Akron Municipal Court judge, and county councilman. Most recently, he worked as a defense attorney handling high-profile cases.
Attorney Jonathan Coughlan represents Callahan in the disciplinary matter. Callahan has denied all accusations of wrongdoing.
The Allegations
In a complaint filed in December, a 57-year-old Cuyahoga County woman accuses Callahan of sexual assault for demanding sexual favors in exchange for his legal services on two occasions in late 2023.
According to the disciplinary complaint, the woman had initially hired Callahan to represent her in an eviction case. The document alleges that Callahan refused to perform legal work for the client unless she performed sexual favors for him.
The complaint states that several days after their initial meeting, Callahan asked to meet at the woman’s home to discuss her case. When he arrived, the complaint said he immediately asked to see the bedroom. The client alleges she initially refused to have sex with him but decided to because “without his help…she would be homeless.”
Police Investigation
The woman reported the incidents to the Middleburg Heights Police Department in early 2024, but was told “criminal charges would not be filed due to the ‘he-said, she-said’ nature of the allegations,” according to the disciplinary case complaint.
The city law director advised her to contact the Office of Disciplinary Counsel, which started the now-halted disciplinary case. The client ultimately decided to represent herself in the eviction case.
What Happens Next
The Ohio Board of Professional Conduct reviews complaints against attorneys and judges. Rulings can result in suspension from practicing law or other disciplinary measures.
With Callahan’s retirement announcement, the disciplinary proceedings have been put on hold. The case will remain stayed pending an order from the Ohio Supreme Court on how to proceed.
Callahan’s retirement effectively ends a decades-long career that included service in multiple roles within Summit County’s judicial system.
