Opinion ID: 1578164
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Principles Governing Our Consideration of This Disciplinary Matter.

Text: This proceeding comes to the court for review of the Commission's report and for final disposition. See Iowa Ct. Rs. 35.9, .10(1). Our review is de novo. See Iowa Ct. R. 35.10(1). Accordingly, although we give weight to the factual findings made by the Commission, particularly when they involve an assessment of witness credibility, this court finds the facts anew. Iowa Supreme Ct. Bd. of Prof'l Ethics & Conduct v. Mulford, 625 N.W.2d 672, 679 (Iowa 2001). In determining the facts, we keep in mind that the Board bears the burden to prove the alleged ethical violations by a convincing preponderance of the evidence. See id. It is the obligation of this court to determine the appropriate discipline. Iowa Supreme Ct. Bd. of Prof'l Ethics & Conduct v. Adams, 623 N.W.2d 815, 818 (Iowa 2001); Iowa Ct. R. 35.10. Nevertheless, we give respectful consideration to the Commission's recommended discipline in making our decision. Adams, 623 N.W.2d at 818. To establish a suitable sanction, we consider the nature and extent of the respondent's ethical infractions, his fitness to continue practicing law, our obligation to protect the public from further harm by the respondent, the need to deter other attorneys from engaging in similar misconduct, our desire to maintain the reputation of the bar as a whole, and any aggravating or mitigating circumstances. Iowa Supreme Ct. Bd. of Prof'l Ethics & Conduct v. Rylaarsdam, 636 N.W.2d 90, 93 (Iowa 2001).