Opinion
SC2022-1818
07-18-2024
The Florida Bar, Complainant(s) v. David W. Palmer II, Respondent(s)
Lower Tribunal No(s).: 2020-00,278(1B)
Upon consideration of the Report of Referee, Amended Motion to Assess Costs, and the briefs filed in this case, the Referee's findings of fact and recommendations as to guilt are approved. The Referee's recommended discipline, a 75-day suspension, is disapproved, and Respondent is hereby suspended from the practice of law for three years, 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. Respondent is further directed to comply with all other terms and conditions of the report. The Court further disapproves of the Referee's recommendation as to the amount of the award of costs.
Judgment is entered for The Florida Bar, 651 East Jefferson Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2300, for recovery of costs from David W. Palmer II., in the amount of $4,920.60, 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, LABARGA, COURIEL, GROSSHANS, FRANCIS, and SASSO, JJ., concur.