NOTICE OF SUSPENSION (Pending Appeal)
Case No. 97-308-GA Gregory S. Thompson, P-39258, Southfield, Michigan, by Attorney Discipline Board Tri-County Hearing Panel #75.
1) Suspension - Two Years; 2) Effective January 15, 1999.
Respondent was retained by the first complainant to probate the estate of his deceased brother. The panel found that respondent misappropriated in excess of $30,000 from the estate; neglected and abandoned the matter; and failed to timely answer the Request for Investigation.
Respondent was retained by the second complainant to probate the estate of her deceased husband. The panel found that respondent neglected the matter; failed to return the unearned portion of the attorney fee; and failed to timely answer the Request for Investigation.
Respondent's conduct was found to be in violation of MCR 9.103(C); MCR 9.104(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); 1.5(a); 1.15(a)-(c); 1.16(d); 3.2; 8.1(b); and 8.4(a)-(c).
The panel ordered that respondent be suspended from the practice of law in Michigan for two years effective December 1, 1998. Costs were assessed in the amount of $1,620.30.
The Grievance Administrator has filed a petition for review seeking increased discipline. Respondent filed a motion for modification of the effective date of the suspension to January 15, 1999, which was granted by the Board. Review proceedings are scheduled for February 1999.