NOTICE OF SUSPENSION AND RESTITUTION (Pending Appeal)
Case Nos. 04-19-GA; 04-27-FA Notice Issued: June 16, 2004 Mary E. Johnson, P 54894, Detroit, Michigan, by the Attorney Discipline Board Tri-County Hearing Panel #19.
1. Suspension - 180 Days
2. Effective May 25, 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 one divorce matter; failed to account for the time spent on the matter and failed to refund the unearned portion of the retainer. In a second divorce matter, respondent abandoned the matter and failed to refund any unused portion of the retainer. Respondent also failed to file answers to two requests for investigation and two formal complaints served upon her by the Grievance Administrator. 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); 1.3; 1.4(a); 1.5(a); 1.5(b); 1.16(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 the aggregate amount of $1,000.00. Respondent filed timely petitions for review and stay of discipline. The stay of discipline was denied by the Attorney Discipline Board on June 16, 2004. The petition for review has been scheduled for a hearing before the Board.