Case ID: nj_183/html/0023-01.html
Source: Caselaw Access Project
Author: {"author": "", "license": "Public Domain", "url": "https://static.case.law/"}
Date Created: 2024-08-24T03:29:51.129683

869 A.2d 877
    IN THE MATTER OF GEORGE J. COTZ, AN ATTORNEY AT LAW
    (ATTORNEY NO. 010711974).
    March 24, 2005.
   ORDER

The Disciplinary Review Board having filed with the Court its decision in DRB 04-359, concluding that GEORGE J. COTZ of MAHWAH, who was admitted to the bar of this State in 1974, should be suspended from the practice of law for a period of six months for violating RPC 1.15(a) (negligent misappropriation of trust funds), RPC 1.15(d) (recordkeeping violations), and RPC 1.8(a) (conflict of interest); and good cause appearing;

It is ORDERED that GEORGE J. COTZ is suspended from the practice of law for a period of six months and until the further Order of the Court, effective April 22, 2005; and it is further

ORDERED that respondent be restrained and enjoined from practicing law during the period of suspension and that he comply with Rule 1:20-20; and it is further

ORDERED that pursuant to Rule l:20-20(c), respondent’s failure to comply with the Affidavit of Compliance requirement of Rule l:20-20(b)(15) may (1) preclude the Disciplinary Review Board from considering respondent’s petition for reinstatement for a period of up to six months from the date respondent files proof of compliance; (2) be found to constitute a violation of RPC 8.1(b) and RPC 8.4(c); and (3) provide a basis for an action for contempt pursuant to Rule 1:10-2; and it is further

ORDERED that prior to reinstatement to practice, respondent shall submit proof of his fitness to practice law, as attested to by a mental health professional approved by the Office of Attorney Ethics; and it is further

ORDERED that the entire record of this matter be made a permanent part of respondent’s file as an attorney at law of this State; and it is further

ORDERED that respondent reimburse the Disciplinary Oversight Committee for appropriate administrative costs incurred in the prosecution of this matter.