Opinion ID: 2588525
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Presumptive Sanction of Count III

Text: Violation of Ethical Duties: Ms. Whitt admitted to violating three ethical duties: (1) engaging in dishonesty, fraud, deceit or misrepresentation under RPC 8.4(c); (2) engaging in conduct that is prejudicial to the administration of justice under RPC 8.4(d); and (3) failing to cooperate fully and promptly with the disciplinary process under RLD 2.8(b)(3). Mental State: Ms. Whitt's mental state is one of intent, the highest of the culpable mental states. The hearing officer correctly indicated that Ms. Whitt intentionally falsified information during the disciplinary investigation for her personal benefit. She intended to deceive the disciplinary process by fabricating multiple false documents and making false representations during the investigation. She did this to avoid personal responsibility for her misconduct. Level of Injury: This course of action caused serious or potentially serious injury to her client, the public and the legal system as a whole. Resulting Presumptive Sanction: The presumptive sanction is disbarment when a lawyer knowingly engages in conduct that is a violation of a duty owed as a professional with the intent to obtain a personal benefit for the lawyer or another, and causes serious or potentially serious injury to a client, the public, or the legal system. STANDARDS std. 7.1. Ms. Whitt intended to deceive the disciplinary process in order to avoid disciplinary action and her actions caused serious or potentially serious injury to her client, the public and the legal system. Thus, the recommended presumptive sanction is disbarment.