NOTICE OF INCREASED SUSPENSION Case Nos. 91-200-GA; 91-236-FA Donald L. Sugg, P38874, Saginaw, Michigan, by the Attorney Discipline Board increasing a hearing panel order of suspension for thirty days.
1) Suspension - 15 months; 2) Effective February 12, 1992. Respondent failed to answer the formal complaints and failed to appear at the hearing held in Saginaw on December 18, 1991. Respondent's default was entered and the panel determined that the default established the allegations of the formal complaint.
Respondent was appointed by order of the probate court as counsel for the purpose of an appeal and filed an appearance in the case on appeal, but failed to file the claim of appeal with the Court of Appeals; falsely advised the probate judge that the matter was being taken care of; and failed to answer the request for investigation.
Respondent's conduct was found to be in violation of MCR 9.104 (1-4,7); MCR 9.103(C); MCR 9.113(B)(2); and the Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct, 1.1(c); 1.2(a); 1.3; 3.2; 8.1(b); 8.4(a-c). Hearing costs were assessed in the amount of $214.67.
The Grievance Administrator filed a petition for review seeking an increase in the discipline imposed. In an order and opinion issued April 22, 1992, the Attorney Discipline Board increased discipline to a 15-month suspension, citing respondent's failure to appear at any stage of the disciplinary proceedings and his misrepresentations to the court. Review costs will be assessed at a future date.