Opinion ID: 2500487
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 8

Heading: Prior Disciplinary Offenses9.22(a): In 2004, Respondent received three suspensions lasting three months each, one of which was fully stayed.

Text: Dishonest and Selfish Motive9.22(b): The Court concludes Respondent acted with a dishonest and selfish motive by defrauding Roberts for his own benefit. Pattern of Misconduct9.22(c): Respondent's dishonesty in this matter manifested on numerous occasions over a period of many months. Bad Faith Obstruction of the Disciplinary Proceeding9.22(e): Respondent failed to participate in this proceeding and the underlying investigation, resulting in his immediate suspension under C.R.C.P. 251.8.6. Refusal to Acknowledge Wrongful Nature of Conduct9.22(g): Respondent's disregard for his misconduct is made plain by his failure to participate in this proceeding and his refusal to pay Roberts the civil arbitration award. Substantial Experience in the Practice of Law9.22(i): Respondent was admitted to the bar in 1986. The misconduct at issue here particularly ill-befits such a long-standing practitioner. Indifference to Making Restitution 9.22(j): Respondent has made no restitution to Roberts, despite an arbitrator's order to do so. Imposition of Other Penalties or Sanctions9.32(k): The civil arbitration award imposed against Respondent is a separate penalty that the Court considers in mitigation. Given Respondent's failure to pay the award as ordered, however, this mitigating factor merits little weight here.