Opinion ID: 2286297
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Respondent's Double Jeopardy Claim

Text: Respondent argues that the Board was precluded from holding a disciplinary hearing in connection with his representation of Michael Robinson because the same matter was considered by the Maryland Attorney Grievance Committee, and for cause shown, was sent before the Maryland Court of Appeals. Therefore, he contends that the matter should be held in abeyance until completed in Maryland. Disciplinary proceedings, including those seeking disbarment, do not invoke the proscriptions against double jeopardy. See In re Sharp, 674 A.2d 899, 900 (D.C.1996) (citations omitted). Proceedings to disbar an attorney are not intended for the purpose of punishment, but to protect the public from lawyers who engage in unethical conduct. Id. (citing Attorney Grievance Comm'n v. Andresen, 281 Md. 152, 155, 379 A.2d 159, 161 (1977)) (other citations omitted). Since disciplinary proceedings are not criminal, double jeopardy principles do not apply. [4]