Opinion ID: 2637903
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: sanction imposed: attorney suspended for a period of eighteen months.

Text: A sanctions hearing pursuant to C.R.C.P. 251.15(b) was held on May 11, 2000, before the Presiding Disciplinary Judge (PDJ) and two Hearing Board members, J.D. Snodgrass and David A. Roth, both members of the bar. Gregory G. Sapakoff, Assistant Attorney Regulation Counsel represented the People of the State of Colorado (the People). Jean S. Nelson (Nelson), the respondent, appeared pro se. The Complaint in this disciplinary action was filed on October 8, 1999. The Respondent, Jean S. Nelson, did not file an Answer to the Complaint. On November 15, 1999 the People filed a Motion for Default. Nelson did not respond. On March 1, 2000 the PDJ issued an Order granting default, stating that all factual allegations set forth in the Complaint were deemed admitted pursuant to C.R.C.P. 251.15(b), and denied default as to the alleged violations. At the sanctions hearing, the People presented evidence from Jean S. Nelson, Gloria Marquez, Judy Pirsky and Michael A. Williams. Jean S. Nelson testified on his own behalf. The People's exhibits 1 through 8 were offered and admitted into evidence. The PDJ and Hearing Board considered the People's argument, the facts established by the entry of default, the exhibits admitted, assessed the testimony and credibility of the witnesses and made the following findings of fact which were established by clear and convincing evidence.