Better Leaders

The Florida Supreme Court has imposed a one-year suspension of an attorney for misconduct as a candidate

In July 2020, the Bar filed a complaint against Grieco, alleging that during a period of time spanning 2016 and 2017, while serving as a city commissioner for Miami Beach and running as a candidate for its mayor, Grieco engaged in conduct that violated Bar Rules 3-4.3 (Misconduct and Minor Misconduct) and 4-8.4(b) (Misconduct; A lawyer shall not “commit a criminal act that reflects adversely on the lawyer’s honesty, trustworthiness, or fitness as a lawyer in other respects.”). The Bar further alleged that Grieco later made statements that were violative of Bar Rule 4-8.4(c) (Misconduct; A lawyer shall not “engage in conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation.”).

The allegations concerned Grieco’s behavior in connection with an entity known as People for Better Leaders (PBL), a political organization that facilitated contributions to Grieco’s mayoral campaign. The alleged violations of Bar Rules 3-4.3 and 4-8.4(b) arose from Grieco pleading no contest to accepting a campaign contribution donated by an individual in the name of another individual—a first-degree misdemeanor in violation of section 106.08(7)(a), Florida Statutes (2017). Adjudication was withheld and Grieco was placed on misdemeanor probation. He agreed not to seek elected office during the probationary period, and he resigned from his position as city commissioner. His criminal history was later expunged.

The asserted violations of Bar Rule 4-8.4(c) arose from statements Grieco gave to the Miami Herald and to the operator of an internet blog known as Political Cortadito. Grieco made statements denying any involvement in the operation and control of PBL. The Bar alleged that Grieco made multiple false or misleading statements to the press, and by extension the public, in violation of Bar Rule 4-8.4(c). 

The court affirmed the findings of misconduct but rejected the referee’s proposed 90-day suspension

Based on the existing caselaw, and in consideration of the aggravating and mitigating circumstances, we conclude that a one-year rehabilitative suspension is the appropriate sanction for Grieco’s misconduct.

Any guesses as to which political party Respondent belongs? (Mike Frisch)