Opinion ID: 1415535
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Respondent's Experience and Character

Text: When considering the appropriate sanction, the subpanel took notice of Respondent's exceptional experience and exemplary contribution to the Charleston community during his thirty years of practice. But the subpanel found that Respondent's experience and community involvement did not mitigate his misconduct. In fact, in making its determination as to the appropriate sanction, the subpanel held Respondent to a higher standard. While Respondent's misconduct is less understandable given his extensive experience, we do not find his experience to be a factor justifying a harsher sanction. Further, we disagree with the subpanel's conclusion that Respondent's character and contributions to society warrant a harsher sanction. If anything, Respondent's character mitigates the circumstances of his misconduct.