NOTICE OF SUSPENSION AND RESTITUTION WITH CONDITIONS Case No. 05-20-GA; 05-37-FA Notice Issued: May 16, 2005 Stephanie J. Brown, P 62693, Howell, Michigan, by the Attorney Discipline Board Livingston County Hearing Panel #1.
1. Suspension - 1 Year 2. Effective May 13, 2005 The respondent failed to appear at the hearing and was found to be in default for failing to file an answer to the formal complaint. Based on that default, the panel found that respondent, while employed as an attorney by a law firm, altered and presented a check in the amount of $590.00, payable to herself, without the knowledge or authorization of her employer; and abandoned the representations three matters. Additionally, in connection with a request for investigation by the Grievance Administrator, respondent failed to provide a signed answer which fully and fairly disclosed the facts and circumstances pertaining to the alleged misconduct; and failed to answer three other requests for investigation.
Respondent=s conduct was in violation of MCR 9.104(A)(1)-(4) and (7); MCR 9.113(A) and (B)(2); and Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct 1.1(c); 1.2(a); 1.3; 1.4(a); 1.16(d); 8.1(a)(2); and 8.4(a)-(c).
The panel ordered that respondent=s license to practice in Michigan be suspended for one year with conditions relevant to the established misconduct. Additionally, the panel ordered that respondent pay restitution in the aggregate amount of $3,200.00. Costs were assessed in the amount of $1,786.38.