Court Opinion

ID: 9791155
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-31 02:06:47.994682+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T07:37:34.480838
License: Public Domain

CONNOR, Justice,
dissenting in part.
In disciplining attorneys it is possible, in demonstrating the zeal with which misconduct is condemned, to err on the side of undue severity.
In the case before us it should be kept in mind that punishments in addition to suspension from the practice of law have been and will be visited upon respondent. Among other things, he will be found guilty of a criminal offense. He has already made civil reparation by paying $25,000 to the person wronged by his misconduct. Additionally it must be recognized that suspending a lawyer from the practice of law stigmatizes him in the community. Even if he regains the privilege of practicing law, it may take many years before his misdeeds are expiated in the eyes of the community. In this sense the mere act of suspending an attorney, for any length of time, can amount to a substantial punishment. It is well known that after a long period of suspension the likelihood of an attorney reentering the practice of law is greatly diminished.
In the case at bar I am impressed by the recommendation of the Area Hearing Committee that respondent should be suspended for a period of one year. As that committee concluded, such a suspension amounts to a substantial punishment, and demonstrates that the ethical standards of the profession will be enforced. But such a period of suspension also holds out hope for rehabilitation of an erring attorney so that someday, when the period of suspension is served, he can take steps to re-enter the profession and make worthy contributions to the wellbeing of the community, and the legal profession as well. It is conceivable that after this chastening experience respondent may, if he re-enters the profession, adhere to ethical standards of a very high order. I fear, however, that an unduly long suspension can have such a demoralizing effect that any chance of rehabilitation may be lost.
Therefore, I agree with the recommendation of the Area Hearing Committee, and would impose a one-year suspension upon respondent.