MEMBERS WILLIAM J. DANHOF
CHAIRPERSON THOMAS G. KIENBAUM VICE-CHAJRPERSON WILLIAM L. MATTHEWS, CPA
SECRETARY ANDREA L. SOLAK ROSALIND E. GRIFFIN, M.D. CARL E. VER BEEK CRAIG H. LUBBEN JAMES M. CAMERON, JR. SYLVIA P. WHITMER, Ph.D
STATE OF MICHIGAN ATTORNEY DISCIPLINE BOARD
JOHN F. VAN BOLT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
MARK A. ARMITAGE DEPUTY DIRECTOR
JENNIFER M. PETTY LEGAL ASSISTANT
211 WEST FORT ST. SUITE 1410 DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48226-3236 PHONE: 313-963-5553 FAX: 313-963-5571
WWW.ADBMICH.ORG
NOTICE OF SUSPENSION (Pending Appeal)
Case No. 10-43-GA Notice Issued: October 4, 2010 Terry A. Trott, P 27729, Tecumseh, Michigan, by the Attorney Discipline Board Washtenaw County Hearing Panel #5.
1. Suspension - Two Years and Six Months 2. Effective October 2, 2010 Based upon the admissions of the respondent in his answer and testimony, and the evidence and exhibits presented, the panel found that respondent failed to return an unearned fee of $1,368.00 when his representation was terminated, even after the client requested a refund, and used those funds from his client trust account for his own personal purposes.
Respondent's conduct was in violation of MCR 9.104(A)(2)-(4); and Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct 1.15(b)(3); 1.16(d); and 8.4(a) and (b).
The panel ordered the respondent's license to practice law in Michigan be suspended for two years and six months.
Respondent filed a petition for review seeking a reduction in discipline and a request for stay of discipline. The Board denied respondent's request for a stay of discipline, but granted a stay on the payment of costs. The Grievance Administrator also filed a petition for review seeking an increase in discipline. This matter has been scheduled for a January 12, 2011, review hearing before the Board.
Dated: OCT - 4 2010
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