NOTICE OF SUSPENSION (Pending Appeal)
Case No. 05-66-GA Notice Issued: November 17, 2005 James H. Richards, P 35176, Jenison, Michigan, by the Attorney Discipline Board Kent County Hearing Panel #3.
1. Suspension - 90 Days 2. Effective November 14, 2005 The respondent appeared at the hearing but was found to be in default for his failure to file an answer to the formal complaint. Based on that default, the panel found that respondent, in a divorce matter, failed to take reasonable steps to protect a client=s interests; failed to surrender papers and property to which the client is entitled upon termination of representation; knowingly failed to respond to a lawful demand for information from a disciplinary authority; and failed to answer a request for investigation.
Respondent=s conduct was in violation of MCR 9.104(A)(1)-(4), (7); MCR 9.113(A); MCR 9.113(B)(2); and Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct 1.16(d); 8.2(a)(2); and 8.4(a) and (c). The panel respondent=s license be suspended for 90 days.
On November 3, 2005, the Grievance Administrator filed a timely conditional petition for review which will be scheduled for hearing before the Attorney Discipline Board.