Embattled former Jacksonville public defender Matt Shirk disbarred
Matt Shirk
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Former Jacksonville public defender Matt Shirk has been disbarred.
Shirk was a public defender for the 4th Judicial Circuit from 2009 to 2017. The circuit is made up of Duval, Nassau and Clay counties.
A grand jury looked into allegations that he circumvented normal practices to hire three young women, that he consumed or served alcohol in a city building and that he revealed privileged client information to a documentary crew.
MORE: Wasteful spending & freebies: How Matt Shirk left office | READ IT: Florida Auditor General’s report | Fired employee sues Public Defender Matt Shirk, claims sexual harassment
He did not face criminal charges but the grand jury called for his resignation.
Shirk didn’t resign but was later suspended from practicing law for one year .
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About the Author Travis Gibson headshot
Executive Reporter who has lived in Jacksonville for over 30 years and helps reporters develop meaningful and impactful community stories.
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