NOTICE OF SUSPENSION AND RESTITUTION Case Nos. 04-74-GA; 04-88-FA Notice Issued: September 20, 2004 Stephanie C. Reiniche, P 58614, Suwanee, Georgia, by the Attorney Discipline Board Jackson County Hearing Panel #1.
1. Suspension - 180 Days 2. Effective September 18, 2004
The respondent was found to be in default for her failure to file an answer to the formal complaint or appear at the hearing. Based on that default, the panel found that respondent, in a divorce matter, failed to complete the legal services which she agreed to perform; failed to keep her client reasonably informed concerning the status of the matter; failed to promptly reimburse her client for the expenses of the unnecessary return trip to Michigan; failed to promptly advise her client of the need to retain another attorney to complete the QDRO; abandoned the representation; and failed to file an answer to a formal complaint. Respondent=s conduct was in violation MCR 9.104(A)(1)-(4) and (7); and Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct 1.1(a) and (c); 1.3; 1.4(a); 1.15(d); 8.1(a)(2); and 8.4(a) and (c).
The hearing panel ordered that respondent=s license be suspended for 180 days and that she pay restitution in amount of $350.00. Costs were assessed in the total amount of $1,675.45.