78 So. 3d 503
Fla.2011Background
- Respondent Berthiaume allegedly served a fraudulent subpoena on Pelican Bank seeking client records without legal authority.
- The subpoena threatened incarceration and contempt, misrepresenting the legal basis for producing records.
- The Bar filed a disciplinary complaint; a referee held hearings and issued findings and recommendations.
- The referee found the subpoena language purposeful and deceptive, and held Berthiaume responsible for it, but found no 4-8.4(c) guilt.
- The referee recommended a ten-day suspension and costs of $13,528.92; the Bar sought review and Berthiaume cross-petitioned.
- This Court held Berthiaume guilty of 4-8.4(c) and 4-8.4(d), and imposed a ninety-one-day suspension.
Issues
| Issue | Plaintiff's Argument | Defendant's Argument | Held |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discovery rulings and defense access | Bar contends denial of depositions hindered Bar’s defense. | Berthiaume argues rulings prevented essential discovery and defense; claims bias/recusal concerns. | No abuse of discretion; defense adequately presented |
| Guilt under 4-8.4(c) for misrepresentation | Bar asserts the fraudulent subpoena constitutes dishonesty/misrepresentation under 4-8.4(c). | Berthiaume asserts no fraud; argues lack of intent or misrepresentation. | Guilty under 4-8.4(c) |
| Disciplinary sanction | Bar contends ten-day sanction too lenient given seriousness. | Berthiaume argues for public reprimand; mitigation factors reduce sanction. | Ninety-one-day suspension warranted |
Key Cases Cited
- Florida Bar v. Forrester, 818 So.2d 477 (Fla. 2002) (misrepresentation without fraud supports 4-8.4(c))
- Florida Bar v. Nicnick, 963 So.2d 219 (Fla. 2007) (concealment of a document warranted 4-8.4(c) sanction)
- Florida Bar v. Miller, 863 So.2d 231 (Fla. 2003) (concealment/ deceitful conduct supporting 4-8.4(c))
- Florida Bar v. Rotstein, 835 So.2d 241 (Fla. 2002) (dishonesty cannot be tolerated; 4-8.4(c) standard)
- Florida Bar v. Korones, 752 So.2d 586 (Fla. 2000) (sanctions general framework; seriousness of misconduct)
- Florida Bar v. Head, 27 So.3d 1 (Fla. 2010) (candor required; dishonesty serious flaw)