S. Ct. Civ. No. 2012-0059

In an appeal by an attorney from an adverse decision of the Ethics and Grievance Committee of the Virgin Islands Bar Association, as well as the Committee's petition for this Court to approve its recommended sanctions, the Committee's petition is granted, as modified. Clear and convincing evidence exists that the attorney violated Model Rules of Professional Conduct 1.2(a), 1.4(a), 1.5(a) and 8.1(b). He breached some of the most important duties owed to the client and to the legal profession itself, his breach was intentional, and his actions resulted in an actual monetary loss. The attorney shall be suspended from the practice of law for six months, and ordered to complete six continuing legal education credit hours in the field of legal ethics, in addition to the continuing legal education hours he must complete to satisfy his obligation under Supreme Court Rule 208. Furthermore, the Committee shall publicly reprimand the attorney in a manner consistent with Supreme Court Rule 207.4.3(d). The six month suspension shall become effective in 15 days in order to provide the attorney an opportunity to comply with Supreme Court Rule 207.5.5, including notifying all clients of his suspension and filing motions to withdraw as counsel in all pending matters. Upon expiration of this 15-day period, Disciplinary Counsel shall confer with the attorney to ascertain that all clients, so desiring, have secured new counsel and to determine if any additional action is required to safeguard their interests during his suspension. Upon expiration of the six month period, the attorney may petition for re-instatement in accordance with Supreme Court Rule 203(h).