Court Opinion

ID: 9789466
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-31 01:36:46.637809+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T15:34:00.240350
License: Public Domain

MOSK, J.
—I dissent.
I would adopt the recommendation of the referee who heard the evidence and had an opportunity to evaluate the witnesses. The referee recommended five years’ probation that included six months’ actual suspension and other conditions.
The petitioner was guilty of one act of misappropriation. Unquestionably it was serious and caused inconvenience to the client affected thereby. However this was one isolated incident and in no way indicates a course of conduct. Since a private reproval 11 years ago the petitioner has been free of improper or unprofessional practice.
Under these circumstances disbarment impresses me as excessive punishment unnecessary for the protection of the public.