Violent Crime Is Serious Misconduct

A conviction for a violent crime merits an 18-month suspension, according to a recent order of the Rhode Island Supreme Court.

Disciplinary Counsel has requested that we suspend the respondent’s license to practice law based upon these two criminal convictions. The respondent appeared before the Court, with counsel, and requested that we impose a less severe sanction. The respondent presented mitigation evidence that his criminal conduct occurred while he was seriously intoxicated, that he has sought and continued treatment for his substance-abuse issues, including in-patient rehabilitative care, and that he has refrained from consuming alcohol and other intoxicating substances since his arrest on the felony charge. Having heard the representations of Disciplinary Counsel, the respondent, and his counsel, we determine that a suspension of the respondent’s ability to practice law in this state is necessary…

By committing a crime of violence the respondent has tarnished the profession, and his conduct warrants a serious sanction.

The court further provided

At the conclusion of his eighteen-month period of suspension, the respondent may apply for reinstatement to the practice of law. Should he do so, the respondent will bear the burden of convincing this Court that he has maintained his sobriety, that he has continued with his treatment for substance abuse, and that he is morally fit to resume the practice of law.

(Mike Frisch)