The character and fitness investigation process is the method by which the Supreme Court attempts to ensure that an applicant currently meets minimum standards for admission to the bar. It is proper therefore for a state to require high standards of qualification, as long as the qualifications have a rational connection with the applicant s fitness or capacity to practice law. Good moral character entails honesty, respect for the rights of others and for the law, trustworthiness, reliability, and commit-ment to judicial process and to the efficient administration of justice. Although the Standing Committee on Character and Fitness bases its recommendation on an applicant s current fitness, past conduct can be an indicator of an individual s current fitness to practice. There is no single action or incident that will per se result in an applicant being denied admission to practice in Michigan.
Every applicant is considered individually based upon the applicant s personal history and record.
Crime-related conduct may show a lack of respect for authority or for the rights of other persons, inability to resolve disputes within legal parameters, poor judgement, and putting personal interests before those of others without thought of the consequences. B. Evidence of drug or alcohol abuse and evidence of mental or emotional instability which permanently, presently or chronically impairs or distorts an applicant s judgement or behavior is relevant to whether the applicant is able to handle stress-related situations commonplace in law practice and whether the applicant is able to think clearly and analyze situations in a realistic and productive manner. An applicant s failure to acknowledge a substance abuse or disability problem, failure to seek or comply with prescribed treatment, or the inability of prescribed treatment to control or alleviate the conditions directly relate to whether the Supreme Court should certify that the applicant may represent the interests of other persons as a lawyer. C. An applicant s financial responsibility , handling of personal finances, history of bad debts, insufficient fund checks, failure to pay taxes, breach of fiduciary duties in employment, business or personal transactions etc., may reveal habits, traits, and judgment relevant to fitness to practice law. An applicant s motives and judgment in pursuing various forms of relief from debt may show disregard for the rights of others and disrespect for the administration of justice.