NOTICE OF SUSPENSION Case No. 92-319-GA Thomas A. White, P-40180, St. Clair Shores and Detroit, Michigan, by Attorney Discipline Board Tri-County Hearing Panel #106.
1) Suspension - 30 days; 2) Effective May 18, 1993. Respondent failed to answer the formal complaint and failed to appear at the hearing held in Mount Clemens on February 9, 1993, but appeared at the hearing held in Mount Clemens on April 13, 1993. Respondent's default was entered, and the panel determined that the default established the allegations of the formal complaint.
Respondent was appointed to represent a defendant in the appeal of a criminal matter, but failed to file a claim of appeal or any post-judgment motions on his client's behalf; failed to consult with his client concerning any perceived difficulties in the appeal; failed to keep his client reasonably informed concerning the status of the appeal; failed to respond to the lawful demands for information made by the Attorney Grievance Commission; and, failed to cooperate with the investigation of the Attorney Grievance Commission.
Respondent was retained to represent an individual in a personal injury action, but failed to comply with discovery orders of the court, causing his client's case to be dismissed with prejudice; and, failed to keep his client reasonably informed concerning the status of the matter.
Respondent's conduct was found to be in violation of MCR 9.103(C); MCR 9.104(1-4); the Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct, 1.1(c); 1.3; 1.4; 3.2; 8.1(b); 8.4(a,c); and Michigan Supreme Court Administrative Order 1981-7, Standards 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 15, 17. Costs were assessed in the amount of $224.81.