On Thursday, November 7, 2024, the Michigan Attorney Discipline Board issued a notice announcing the suspension of attorney R. Scott A. Baker for two years. This decision comes as a result of a Stipulation for Consent Order.

The case is entitled “In the Matter of R. Scott A. Baker,” with case no. 24-25-JC; 24-26-GA.

Baker faced charges stemming from his representation of two clients in divorce cases. The formal complaint against him included serious allegations, revealing that he presented fabricated court orders purportedly issued by Lenawee County Circuit Court. These documents were reportedly created, stamped, and signed by Baker himself.

The misconduct in question led to Baker’s conviction for willful neglect of duty as a public officer, a misdemeanor under Michigan law. This conviction was established through his guilty plea in the case of People v. Robert Scott Allen Baker, adjudicated in the 2A District Court.

The Attorney Grievance Commission’s panel found substantial evidence supporting the claims against Baker. He was determined to have neglected legal responsibilities assigned to him, violating the Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct (MRPC) 1.1(c) for failing to provide competent representation. Additional violations included a lack of reasonable diligence and promptness in client representation (MRPC 1.3), failure to keep clients informed about their case status (MRPC 1.4(a)), and not expediting litigation in a manner consistent with client interests (MRPC 3.2).

Moreover, Baker’s actions reflected dishonesty and misrepresentation, breaching MRPC 8.4(b) and engaging in conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice (MRPC 8.4(c)). The panel noted that his actions exposed the legal profession to public disdain and undermined trust in the legal system.

In accordance with the agreement reached between Baker and the Grievance Administrator, the panel ordered the suspension of Baker’s law license for two years, starting on December 1, 2024.

The Disposition states:

“The panel ordered that the respondent’s license to practice law in Michigan be suspended for two years, effective December 1, 2024, as agreed to by the parties, and that he be subject to a condition relevant to the established misconduct. Costs were assessed in the amount of $950.76.”

A copy of the original filing can be found here.