BOARD MEMBERS JOHN L . COTE. CHAIRPERSON LEO A. FARHAT M S G R . CLEMENT H . KERN DAVID BAKER LEWIS. SECRETARY FRANK J . MCDEVITT. 0 . 0 . WILLIAM G . REAMON LYNN H . SHECTER. VICE-CHAIRPERSON
STATE OF MICHIGAN
MAILING ADDRESS: P. 0. BOX 149 DETROIT. MICHIGAN 48231
JOHN F. X.DWAIHY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 6, GENERAL C O U N S E L
SUITE 1 2 6 0 3 3 3 W.FORT STREET DETROIT. MICHIGAN 4 8 2 2 6 T E L E P H O N E : ( ~ I ~9)6 3 - 5 5 5 3
NOTICE OF SUSPENSION DP-48/82 & DP-124182
JAMES D. HILLS (P 14978), 425 Westnedge, Kala- mazoo, MI 49007, by the Attorney Discipline Board modifying a hearing panel decision. (1) Suspension; (2) For a period of 121 days; (3) Effective September 23, 1983. The Respondent appealed an order of revocation of license and the Attorney Discipline Board issuing an opinion, found that: Respondent neglected a civil matter and made mis- representations to the client regarding the status and progress of the case, that Respondent paid his client certain sums which he falsely represented were partial payment of purported judg- ments obtained on the client's behalf, that Respondent made false statements in his answers to the Grievance Administrator's Request for Investigation, that Respondent misrepresented to a client the role and purpose and identification of an inves- tigator for the Attorney Grievance Commission. The matter was remanded to a Master to determine Respondent's eligibility for probation under GCR 1963, 970.3. The Board found that Respon- dent did not qualify for probation; however, substantial evi- dence in mitigation submitted to the Master, was considered as the basis for modification of the panel order. The Board in its opinion noted that the Respondent had attempted some substantial restitution to his clients and that ~espondent's conduct did not involve an intent to achieve any personal or financial gain. Costs were assessed in the amount of $712.96.
Dated: September 29, 1983