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Suspension Recommended For Lawyer Who Photoshopped Images Of Herself With Politicians, Celebrities

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A judge has recommended a six-month suspension for a Los Angeles attorney who posted doctored photos on her firm's website that show her arm-in-arm with high-profile people like President Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, Leonardo DiCaprio and George Clooney.

During a July trial, experts testified that dozens of photos were altered to make it appear as though Svitlana Sangary was in the presence of celebrities.

In an 18-page decision this month, Judge Donald Miles said Sangary failed to remove the images after a State Bar warning that they were false advertising; disregarded the disciplinary process and responded to the charges with a 16-page soliloquy that had little or nothing to do with the case.

The California Supreme Court will decide on the recommendation.

In a rambling statement to The Associated Press, Sangary implied that the photos were genuine. The attorney says she was photographed with "talented and successful people" at charity and political events and provided a photo link.

(Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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