Attorney General Michelle Henry has announced the sentencing of former Lackawanna County attorney, James Conaboy, to prison for forging documents and misleading clients about the outcomes of their civil cases. Conaboy, from Clarks Summit, pleaded guilty to misdemeanor forgery and tampering with records. A Luzerne County Judge sentenced him to 30 days to a year in prison, followed by four years of probation.
The investigation by the Office of Attorney General found that Conaboy, aged 52, deceived several clients regarding their legal cases. He falsely promised settlements that were never achieved. "As a sworn officer of the court, this defendant was trusted to represent the best interests of clients — instead, he did the exact opposite," stated Attorney General Henry. "The defendant intentionally ignored all ethical obligations by cruelly misleading clients to believe they would receive large settlement sums."
Conaboy's deceit included two cases where he claimed six-figure settlements had been reached. In 2021, he informed clients of a $700,000 settlement in a medical malpractice case; however, the court had terminated the case due to his failure to serve the lawsuit. He forged a judge’s signature on documents indicating client success.
In another instance involving an employment suit, Conaboy falsely communicated that a $517,000 settlement was negotiated when in fact the suit was dismissed. Similarly, in a third medical malpractice suit, he withdrew from proceedings but misled his client into believing a $50,000 settlement had been secured.
Conaboy consented to disbarment in April 2023 following actions by the Pennsylvania Disciplinary Board. The prosecution was led by Senior Deputy Attorney General Rebecca Elo.