NOTICE OF SUSPENSION Case Nos. 91-129-GA; 91-158-FA William L. Peper, P40794, Warren, Michigan, by the Attorney Discipline Board affirming and modifying a hearing panel order of suspension.
1) Suspension - 30 days; 2) Effective November 9, 1991. Respondent failed to answer the formal complaints, but appeared at the hearing held in Detroit on September 11, 1991. Respondent's defaults were entered and the panel determined that the defaults established the allegations of the formal complaints.
Respondent filed a summons and complaint on behalf of his clients, but failed to undertake any discovery; failed to file a mediation summary; made false statements to his clients; failed to timely serve two of the defendants; entered into a stipulation to dismiss without his clients' consent; failed to advise his clients of the dismissal of their case; 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); 1.3; 1.4(a,b); 8.1(b); 8.4(a-c). Costs were assessed in the amount of $129.43.
The Grievance Administrator filed a petition for review seeking an increase in the discipline imposed. In an order dated June 11, 1992, the Attorney Discipline Board affirmed the thirty-day suspension and modified the conditions imposed by t@ hearing panel.
NOTE: Respondent was automatically reinstated to the practice of law effective February 5, 1992, in accordance with MCR 9.123(A).