Opinion
SC2022-0595
03-13-2024
The Florida Bar, Complainant(s) v. Michael Paul Brundage, Respondent(s)
Lower Tribunal No(s).: 2019-10,685 (6E); 2020-10,566 (6E); 2019-10,237 (6E); 2019-10,566 (6E).
Upon consideration of the report of referee, the briefs filed in this case, and the response and reply filed to this Court's order to show cause dated December 1, 2023, the report of the referee is approved in part, and disapproved in part. The referee's findings of guilt are approved. However, the referee's recommended sanction, a one-year suspension, is disapproved, and Respondent is suspended from the practice of law for three years, effective 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 30 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. Respondent is further directed to comply with all other terms and conditions of the report.
Judgment is entered for The Florida Bar, 651 East Jefferson Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2300, for recovery of costs from Michael Paul Brundage in the amount of $3,295.00, 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.
MUNIZ, C.J., and CANADY, LABARGA, COURIEL, GROSSHANS, FRANCIS, and SASSO, JJ, concur.