Opinion ID: 1667507
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: sanction is the sole issue

Text: In an attorney disciplinary proceeding based on the lawyer's criminal conviction, the issue of his guilt may not be relitigated. Because the lawyer's conviction, whether based on adjudication or guilty plea, is tantamount to a finding of his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, the clear-and-convincing standard of proof that applies to disciplinary proceedings has already been satisfied. Maryland State Bar Assn. v. Rosenberg, 273 Md. 351, 329 A.2d 106 (1974). Thus, due process does not require a second opportunity for the lawyer to refute the criminal charges. Florida Bar v. Lancaster, 448 So.2d 1019 (Fla. 1984). A criminal conviction, based on either an adjudication or a plea of guilt, is considered to be conclusive proof that the attorney committed the essential elements of the offense. LSBA v. Frank, 472 So.2d 1 (La.1985); LSBA v. Loridans, 338 So.2d 1338 (La.1976); In re Esposito, 96 N.J. 122, 474 A.2d 254 (1984); See Articles of Incorporation, La. State Bar Assn., Art. XV, § 8(a)(7)(d); ABA Model Rules for Lawyer Disciplinary Enforcement, Rule 19(E) (1989). In this type of proceeding the sole issue to be determined is whether the crime warrants discipline and, if so, the extent thereof. Id. A disciplinary proceeding inquires into a lawyer's fitness to practice, not just into whether the alleged misconduct occurred, and therefore matters relevant to aggravation or mitigation of the sanction to be imposed are relevant. LSBA v. Brumfield, 449 So.2d 1017 (La. 1984); LSBA v. Frank, supra.