Encinitas
A former medical malpractice attorney pleaded guilty Monday to grand theft in the embezzlement of $60,000 in funds he obtained in a civil settlement for a client.
Gordon E. von Kalinowski, 70, of Encinitas entered his plea to the felony count before San Diego Municipal Judge Janet Kintner, who set sentencing for Dec. 11.
Kalinowski resigned in June from the California Bar Assn. after an investigation was begun. He had been a lawyer for 39 years and specialized in medical malpractice lawsuits.
Deputy Dist. Atty. Denise McGuire said the maximum sentence is three years in state prison and a $10,000 fine. She said she has not decided whether to recommend a prison term.
“Certainly we will be asking for restitution,” McGuire said.
The theft occurred earlier this year, according to court records. The name of the victim was not disclosed.
Kalinowski remains free pending the sentencing.
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