In re Fitchett
In re Fitchett
Opinion of the Court
ORDER
The Disciplinary Review Board having filed a decision (DRB 04-273) finding that FREDERICK FITCHETT, III, of DEL-
And the Court having issued an Order to Show Cause why respondent should not be disbarred or otherwise disciplined,
And the Court having considered the record and the arguments of counsel,
And the Court having determined that clear and convincing evidence supports the determination of the Disciplinary Review Board in respect of its findings of violation,
And the Disciplinary Review Board having divided in respect of the quantum of discipline that is appropriate for respondent’s unethical conduct, with the majority of the Disciplinary Review Board having determined that a reprimand is sufficient and three dissenting members having voted for a three-month suspension,
And the Court noting that the Rules of Professional Conduct absolutely proscribe dual representation when one of the clients is a public entity, or side-switching in that setting when the matter is the same or a substantially related matter and the interests of the respective former and current clients are materially adverse, and that, generally, a suspension has been required when a conflict of interest visits serious economic injury on the client or when the circumstances are egregious, see In re Berkowitz, 136 N.J. 134, 148, 642 A.2d 389 (1994),
And good cause appearing;
It is ORDERED that FREDERICK FITCHETT, III, is suspended from the practice of law for three months and until the further Order of the Court, effective August 22, 2005; and it is further
ORDERED that the entire record of this matter be made a permanent part of respondent’s file as an attorney at law of this State; and it is further
ORDERED that respondent be restrained and enjoined from practicing law during the period of suspension and that respondent comply with Rule 1:20-20; and it is further
ORDERED that pursuant to Rule l:20-20(c), respondent’s failure to comply with the Affidavit of Compliance requirement of Rule 1:20 — 20(b)(15) may (1) preclude the Disciplinary Review Board from considering respondent’s petition for reinstatement for a period of up to six months from the date respondent files proof of compliance; (2) be found to constitute a violation of RPC 8.1(b) and RPC 8.4(c); and (3) provide a basis for an action for contempt pursuant to Rule 1:10-2; and it is further
ORDERED that respondent reimburse the Disciplinary Oversight Committee for appropriate administrative costs incurred in the prosecution of this matter.
Reference
- Full Case Name
- IN THE MATTER OF FREDERICK FITCHETT, III, AN ATTORNEY AT LAW
- Cited By
- 4 cases
- Status
- Published