NOTICE OF SUSPENSION WITH CONDITIONS Case Nos. 92-66-GA; 92-99-FA Lonnie T. Smith, P-23602, University Heights, Ohio (formerly of Detroit, Michigan), by the Attorney Discipline Board affirming Tri-County Hearing Panel #13's Order of Suspension With Conditions.
1) Suspension - one (1) year; 2) Effective April 11, 1995. Respondent was appointed to represent the defendant in a criminal appeal. The panel found, by default, that respondent neglected the matter and failed to timely answer the Formal Complaint. Respondent's conduct was found to be in violation of MCR 9.104(1)-(4); and Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct 1.1(c); 1.3; 1.4(a); 3.2; and 8.4(a)and(c).
On December 14, 1992, the panel entered an Order of Reprimand (With Conditions). The Grievance Administrator and the respondent each filed a petition for review. On June 10, 1993, the Attorney Discipline Board entered an Order Modifying Order of Reprimand With Conditions. On April 20, 1994, the Grievance Administrator filed a petition for order to show cause alleging that respondent had failed to comply with the conditions set forth in the previous orders. On June 16, 1994, the Board entered an order granting the petition for order to show cause and order of interim suspension, effective July 8, 1994. Respondent filed a motion for reconsideration and motion to dismiss, which were denied by the Board on August 12, 1994. Respondent filed an application for leave to appeal, which was denied by the Michigan Supreme Court on March 31, 1995.
Following a show cause hearing, the panel entered an order suspending respondent from the practice of law in Michigan for one year effective April 11, 1995, subject to certain conditions. Respondent filed a petition for review. On September 29, 1995, the Attorney Discipline Board entered an Order Affirming Hearing Panel Order of Suspension With Conditions. Costs were assessed in the amount of $803.31.