Opinion ID: 1631518
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: standard of review

Text: We review attorney disciplinary proceedings de novo. Iowa Supreme Ct. Att'y Disciplinary Bd. v. Casey, 761 N.W.2d 53, 55 (Iowa 2009). The commission's findings and recommendations are given respectful consideration, but we are not bound by them. Id. The board has the burden of proving attorney misconduct by a convincing preponderance of the evidence. Iowa Supreme Ct. Att'y Disciplinary Bd. v. Conrad, 723 N.W.2d 791, 792 (Iowa 2006). As frequently stated, `[t]his burden is less than proof beyond a reasonable doubt, but more than the preponderance standard required in the usual civil case.' Id. (quoting Iowa Supreme Ct. Bd. of Profl Ethics & Conduct v. Lett, 674 N.W.2d 139, 142 (Iowa 2004)). Upon proof of misconduct, the court may impose a lesser or greater sanction than that recommended by the commission. Id.