Opinion
SC21-1472
10-13-2022
THE FLORIDA BAR Complainant(s) v. WILLIAM PENA WELLS Respondent(s)
Lower Tribunal No(s).: 2019-10,735 (6E); 2020-10,437 (6E)
HON. WESLEY D. TIBBALS, JUDGE
The uncontested report of the referee is approved and respondent is suspended from the practice of law for one year, effective thirty days from the date of this order so that Respondent can close out his practice and protect the interests of existing clients. If Respondent notifies this Court in writing that he is no longer practicing and does not need the thirty days to protect existing clients, this Court will enter an order making the suspension effective immediately. Respondent shall fully comply with Rule Regulating the Florida Bar 3-5.1(h). Respondent shall also fully comply with Rule Regulating the Florida Bar 3-6.1, if applicable. In addition, respondent shall accept no new business from the date this order is filed until he is reinstated.
Further, the Court hereby reprimands respondent.
Respondent is also directed to attend The Florida Bar's Ethics School under the terms and conditions set forth in the report.
Judgment is entered for The Florida Bar, 651 East Jefferson Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2300, for recovery of costs from William Pena Wells in the amount of $3,287.25, for which sum let execution issue.
Not final until time expires to file motion for rehearing, and if filed, determined. The filing of a motion for rehearing shall not alter the effective date of this suspension.
MUÑIZ, C.J., and CANADY, POLSTON, LABARGA, COURIEL, GROSSHANS, and FRANCIS, JJ., concur.