On Wednesday, June 28, 2022, the Attorney Discipline Board of the State of Michigan dismissed the petition for review filed by attorney Jennifer Michelle Paine for her disbarment due to allegations of misconduct in representing multiple clients.
The case is entitled “Grievance Administrator v. Jennifer Michelle Paine,” with case no. 22-3-GA; 22-93-GA.
The charges cited Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct 1.1(a), 1.1(c), 1.4, 3.3(a)(1), 3.4(d), 3.5(d), 4.1, 1.15(c), 1.15(d), 1.16(d), 1.16(a)(3), 8.4(b), 8.4(c) 8.4(a), 1.7, 1.8(e) and Michigan Court Rules 9.104(4), 9.104(1), 9.104(2), 9.104(3)
Failed to deposit and maintain the tax refund check into the client’s trust account until her dispute over fees with her client was resolved.
Failed to hold the property of her client or third persons in connection with a representation separate from her own property by not depositing the check into a client trust account, but rather commingling the funds by depositing them into her own personal checking account.
Engaged in conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit, misrepresentation, or violation of the criminal law, where such conduct reflects adversely on the lawyer’s honesty, trustworthiness, or fitness as a lawyer.
Engaged in conduct that was in violation of the Rules of Professional Conduct.
Engaged in conduct that was prejudicial to the administration of justice
Engaged in conduct that exposed the legal profession or the courts to obloquy, contempt, censure, or reproach.
Engaged in conduct that was contrary to justice, ethics, honesty, or good morals.
Engaged in a conflict of interest by representing two adverse parties without proper consultation for consent.
Engaged in a conflict of interest by providing financial assistance to a client.
Engaged in conduct that was in violation of the Rules of Professional Conduct.
Made false statements of material fact to a tribunal.
Failed to make reasonably diligent efforts to comply with a legally proper discovery request by the opposing party.
Made false statements of material fact to the opposing attorney.
Neglected a legal matter entrusted to her.
Failed to keep her client reasonably informed about the true status of the matter.
Charged and attempted to collect a clearly excessive fee for work that was not performed.
Refused to withdraw after being discharged.
Failed to make reasonable efforts to expedite litigation consistent with the interest of her client.
The Rules of Professional Conduct can be found here.
The State of Michigan Attorney Disciplinary Board disbarred the respondent in relation to her admissions to all misconduct allegations in two formal complaints, that she engaged in professional misconduct while representing four clients in their respective divorce and post-judgment divorce matters, as well as in adoption proceedings. Additionally, the respondent committed professional misconduct in her own criminal case after being charged with driving with a suspended license
The report states:
“Considering the aforementioned issues, the court reached a decision to revoke the respondent’s license to practice law, thereby disbarring her. This action was taken in response to the misconduct and violations outlined earlier, which established a pattern of unethical behavior and disregard for professional standards. The gravity of the respondent’s actions, as revealed during the proceedings, led the court to conclude that disbarment was the appropriate and necessary disciplinary measure to safeguard the integrity of the legal profession and protect the interests of the public.”
The respondent attempted to seek a review of the disbarment order. However, it was dismissed by the Attorney Discipline Board due to the failure of the former to comply with the filing requirements. The respondent did not file the required brief by the deadline, and the Grievance Administrator filed a motion to dismiss, which the board granted.
The Disposition states:
“IT IS ORDERED that, in accordance with MCR 9.118 (B), respondent’s petition for review filed May 10, 2023, is DISMISSED. The Board’s order to show cause is VACATED and the review hearing scheduled for August 16, 2023, is CANCELLED.”
As of today, attorney Paine is listed in the law firm Pinnacle Law Group, as an owner. She attended the Michigan State University College of Law, graduating in 2008. She practices in Novi, Michigan. She is licensed in Michigan. Her info can be found on avvo.com.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
