NOTICE OF SUSPENSION Case Nos. 92-229-GA; 92-246-FA Richard C. Digon, P35838, Ypsilanti, Michigan, by Attorney Discipline Board Washtenaw County Hearing Panel #2.
1) Suspension - five years; 2) Effective February 2, 1993. Respondent failed to answer the formal complaints and failed to appear at the hearing held in Ann Arbor on October 30, 1992. Respondent's default was entered, and the panel determined that the default established the allegations of the formal complaint.
Respondent was retained in connection with a pending child abuse and neglect matter. Although respondent filed a substitution of counsel and attended one hearing, he failed to take any further action of his clients' behalf; failed to keep his clients informed concerning the status of the matter and failed to timely inform them of his anticipated relocation to Arizona during the representation; failed to refund the unused portion of the $3000 retainer fee; and failed to answer the request for investigation.
Respondent's conduct was found to be in violation of MCR 9.103(C); MCR 9.104(1-4,7); MCR 9.113(A)and(B)(2); and the Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct, 1.1(c); 1.3; 1.4; 1.15(b); 3.2; 8.1(b); 8.4(a,c). Costs were assessed in the amount of $188.27.
The petition for review filed by the Grievance Administrator has been withdrawn, and this matter is closed.
NOTE: Respondent's license to practice law in Michigan has been continuously suspended since September 29, 1990.