Opinion ID: 1166119
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: the board recommendations

Text: [9] Although we give serious consideration to the recommendations of the board in all disciplinary proceedings, they are advisory only. In re J. Lael Simmons, 59 Wn.2d 689, 369 P.2d 947 (1962). In all disciplinary actions, the ultimate responsibility for determining the final action to be taken rests solely with this court. In re Caffrey, 63 Wn.2d 1, 385 P.2d 383 (1963); In re J. Lael Simmons, supra ; In re Durham, 41 Wn.2d 609, 251 P.2d 169 (1952). [10] In making the determination we consider the seriousness and circumstances of the offense as well as the following standards: 1. A punishment of the offender, which should be sufficient to prevent reoccurrence. 2. A penalty sufficient to deter other practitioners from engaging in such conduct. 3. Punishment sufficient to restore and maintain respect for the honor and dignity of the profession, and to assure those who seek the services of lawyers that the penalties for unprofessional conduct will be strictly enforced. In re Pennington, 73 Wn.2d 601, 440 P.2d 175 (1968); In re J. Lael Simmons, supra . With these standards in mind, and considering the facts of this case, we decline to follow the board's recommendations. [11] Both attorneys shall be held jointly and severally liable for paying into the trust fund of the Clerk of the Superior Court for King County, all attorneys' fees withheld in excess of those originally contracted for at the rate of 33 1/3 per cent of the gross amount recovered. These trust funds shall not be withdrawn until the superior court has determined whether Mrs. Markos or Messrs. Kennedy and Schroeter are entitled to them or to any part thereof. In light of the peculiar circumstances of this case, we do not believe the penalty recommended by the board comports with the standards set forth in In re Pennington, supra ; or in In re J. Lael Simmons, supra . Mr. Kennedy's suspension is increased from the recommended 30 days to 60 days, or until the disputed attorneys' fees are paid into the trust fund, whichever is longer. Mr. Schroeter's penalty is increased from a reprimand to suspension for 30 days or until the disputed attorneys' fees are paid into the trust fund, whichever is the longer. Mr. Schroeter's 30-day suspension shall be consecutive to that previously imposed by this court in In re Schroeter, 80 Wn.2d 1, 489 P.2d 917 (1971). The respective periods of suspension shall commence 30 days after the filing of this opinion. However, in the event a petition for rehearing is made and if it is denied, the respective periods of suspension shall commence 10 days thereafter. We confirm the statement and supplemental statement of costs claimed by the Washington State Bar Association pursuant to DRA 7.1 et seq. FINLEY, ROSELLINI, HALE, and WRIGHT, JJ., concur. HAMILTON, C.J., HUNTER and NEILL, JJ., concur in the result. Petition for rehearing denied March 17, 1972.