Opinion
Case No. SC03-2151.
September 15, 2005.
Lower Tribunal Nos. 2002-30,991(18B), 2002-31,128(18B), 2002-30,898(18B), 2002-31,361(18B), 2002-31,724(18B), 2002-31,866(18B), 2002-30,745(18B).
The uncontested report of the referee and consent judgment are approved. Respondent is suspended from the practice of law for ten (10) work days, not to include Saturday and Sunday, effective thirty (30) 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 (30) days to protect existing clients, this Court will enter an order making the suspension effective immediately. Respondent shall accept no new business from the date this order is filed until the suspension expires. The notification requirements of Rule Regulating The Florida Bar 3-5.1(g) are waived.
Respondent shall pay restitution in the amount of $500.00 to Joanna R. Scott and $30.00 to Craig J. Evans under the terms and conditions set forth in the report and consent judgment.
Respondent is further directed to attend the next scheduled Trust Accounting Workshop held in his geographical area under the terms and conditions set forth in the report and consent judgment.
Judgment is entered for The Florida Bar, 651 East Jefferson Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2300, for recovery of costs from Billy Michael Thomas in the amount of $4,516.01, 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.