Court Rules Chapter 9

MICHIGAN COURT RULES OF 1985

Chapter 9. Professional Disciplinary Proceedings

Updated April 26, 2024

Subchapter 9.100 Attorney Grievance Commission; Attorney Discipline Board

Rule 9.101 Definitions

As used in subchapter 9.100:

(1) “board” means the Attorney Discipline Board;

(2) “commission” means the Attorney Grievance Commission;

(3) “administrator” means the grievance administrator;

(4) “investigator” means a person specially designated by the administrator to assist him or her in the investigation of alleged misconduct or requested reinstatement;

(5) “attorney” or “lawyer” means a person regularly licensed, specially admitted, permitted to practice law in Michigan on a temporary or other limited basis, or who is otherwise subject to the disciplinary authority of Michigan pursuant to order or rule of the Supreme Court;

(6) “respondent” means an attorney named in a request for investigation or complaint, or proceedings for reciprocal discipline, based on a judgment of conviction, or transfers to inactive status under MCR 9.121;

(7) “request for investigation” means the first step in bringing alleged misconduct to the administrator’s attention;

(8) “complaint” means the formal charge prepared by the administrator and filed with the board;

(9) “review” means examination by the board of a hearing panel’s order on petition by the administrator, complainant, or respondent;

(10) “appeal” means judicial re-examination by the Supreme Court of the board’s final order on petition by the administrator, complainant, or respondent;

(11) “grievance” means alleged misconduct;

(12) “investigation” means fact finding on alleged misconduct under the administrator’s direction.

(13) “disbarment” means revocation of the license to practice law.

(14) “complainant” means a person who signs a request for investigation.

(15) “disability inactive status” means inactive status to which a lawyer has been transferred pursuant to MCR 9.121 or a similar rule of another jurisdiction.

(16)”disciplinary proceeding” means a proceeding commenced under this subchapter seeking the imposition of discipline for misconduct.

Rule 9.102 Construction; Severability

(A) Construction. Subchapter 9.100 is to be liberally construed for the protection of the public, the courts, and the legal profession and applies to all pending matters of misconduct and reinstatement and to all future proceedings, even though the alleged misconduct occurred before the effective date of subchapter 9.100. Procedures must be as expeditious as possible.

(B) Severability. If a court finds a portion of subchapter 9.100 or its application to a person or circumstances invalid, the invalidity does not affect the remaining portions or other applications. To this end the rules are severable.

Rule 9.103 Standards of Conduct for Attorneys

(A) General Principles. The license to practice law in Michigan is, among other things, a continuing proclamation by the Supreme Court that the holder is fit to be entrusted with professional and judicial matters and to aid in the administration of justice as an attorney and counselor and as an officer of the court. It is the duty of every attorney to conduct himself or herself at all times in conformity with standards imposed on members of the bar as a condition of the privilege to practice law. These standards include, but are not limited to, the rules of professional responsibility and the rules of judicial conduct that are adopted by the Supreme Court.

(B) Duty to Assist Public to Request Investigation. An attorney shall assist a member of the public to communicate to the administrator, in appropriate form, a request for investigation of a member of the bar. An attorney shall not charge or collect a fee in connection with answering a request for investigation unless he or she is acting as counsel for a respondent in connection with a disciplinary investigation or proceeding.

(C) Duty to Assist Administrator. An attorney other than a respondent or respondent’s attorney shall cooperate with the administrator in the investigation, prosecution, and disposition of a request for investigation or proceeding under this subchapter.

Rule 9.104 Grounds for Discipline in General

The following acts or omissions by an attorney, individually or in concert with another person, are misconduct and grounds for discipline, whether or not occurring in the course of an attorney-client relationship:

(1) conduct prejudicial to the proper administration of justice;

(2) conduct that exposes the legal profession or the courts to obloquy, contempt, censure, or reproach;

(3) conduct that is contrary to justice, ethics, honesty, or good morals;

(4) conduct that violates the standards or rules of professional conduct adopted by the Supreme Court;

(5) conduct that violates a criminal law of a state or of the United States, an ordinance, or tribal law pursuant to MCR 2.615;

(6) knowing misrepresentation of any facts or circumstances surrounding a request for investigation or complaint;

(7) failure to answer a request for investigation or complaint in conformity with MCR 9.113 and 9.115(D);

(8) contempt of the board or a hearing panel;

(9) violation of an order of discipline; or

(10) entering into an agreement or attempting to obtain an agreement, that:

(a) the professional misconduct or the terms of a settlement of a claim for professional misconduct shall not be reported to the administrator;

(b) the plaintiff shall withdraw a request for investigation or shall not cooperate with the investigation or prosecution of misconduct by the administrator; or

Rule 9.105 Purpose and Funding of Disciplinary Proceedings

(A) Purpose. Discipline for misconduct is not intended as punishment for wrongdoing, but for the protection of the public, the courts, and the legal profession. The fact that certain misconduct has remained unchallenged when done by others or when done at other times or has not been earlier made the subject of disciplinary proceedings is not an excuse.

(B) Funding. The legal profession, through the State Bar of Michigan, is responsible for the reasonable and necessary expenses of the board, the commission, and the administrator, as determined by the Supreme Court.

Rule 9.106 Types of Discipline; Minimum Discipline

Misconduct is grounds for:

(1) disbarment of an attorney from the practice of law in Michigan;

(2) suspension of the license to practice law in Michigan for a specified term, not less than 30 days, with such additional conditions relevant to the established misconduct as a hearing panel, the board, or the Supreme Court may impose, and, if the term exceeds 179 days, until the further order of a hearing panel, the board, or the Supreme Court;

(3) reprimand with such conditions relevant to the established misconduct as a hearing panel, the board, or the Supreme Court may impose;

(4) probation ordered by a hearing panel, the board, or the Supreme Court under MCR 9.121(C); or

(5) requiring restitution, in an amount set by a hearing panel, the board, or the Supreme Court, as a condition of an order of discipline.

Rule 9.107 Rules Exclusive on Discipline

(A) Proceedings for Discipline. Subchapter 9.100 governs the procedure to discipline attorneys. A proceeding under subchapter 9.100 is subject to the superintending control of the Supreme Court. An investigation or proceeding may not be held invalid because of a nonprejudicial irregularity or an error not resulting in a miscarriage of justice.

(B) Local Bar Associations. A local bar association may not conduct a separate proceeding to discipline an attorney.

Rule 9.108 Attorney Grievance Commission

(A) Authority of Commission. The Attorney Grievance Commission is the prosecution arm of the Supreme Court for discharge of its constitutional responsibility to supervise and discipline Michigan attorneys and those temporarily admitted to practice under MCR 8.126 or otherwise subject to the disciplinary authority of the Supreme Court.

(B) Composition. The commission consists of 3 laypersons and 6 attorneys appointed by the Supreme Court. The members serve 3-year terms. A member may not serve more than 2 full terms.

(C) Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson. The Supreme Court shall designate from among the members of the commission a chairperson and a vice-chairperson who shall serve 1-year terms in those offices. The commencement and termination dates for the 1-year terms shall coincide appropriately with the 3-year membership terms of those officers and the other commission members. The Supreme Court may reappoint these officers for additional terms and may remove these officers prior to the expiration of a term. An officer appointed to fill a mid-term vacancy shall serve the remainder of that term and may be reappointed to serve up to 2 more full terms.

(D) Internal Rules.

(1) The commission must elect annually from among its membership a secretary to keep the minutes of the commission’s meetings and issue the required notices.

(2) Five members constitute a quorum. The commission acts by majority vote of the members participating in the meeting.

(3) The commission must meet monthly at a time and place the chairperson designates. Notice of a regular monthly meeting is not required.

(4) A special meeting may be called by the chairperson or by petition of 3 commission members on 7 days’ written notice. The notice may be waived in writing or by attending the meeting. Special meetings may be conducted through electronic means.

(E) Powers and Duties. The commission has the power and duty to:

(1) recommend attorneys to the Supreme Court for appointment as administrator and deputy administrator;

(2) supervise the investigation of attorney misconduct, including requests for investigation of and complaints against attorneys;

(3) supervise the administrator;

(4) when prompt action is required, seek an injunction from the Supreme Court enjoining an attorney’s misconduct or enjoining an attorney from engaging in the practice of law, even if a disciplinary proceeding concerning that conduct is not pending before the board;

(5) annually propose a budget for the commission and the administrator’s office, including compensation, and submit it to the Supreme Court for approval;

(6) submit to the Supreme Court proposed changes in these rules; and

(7) perform other duties provided in these rules.

Rule 9.109 Grievance Administrator

(A) Appointment. The administrator and the deputy administrator must be attorneys. The commission may recommend one or more candidates for appointment as administrator and deputy administrator. The Supreme Court shall appoint the administrator and the deputy administrator, may terminate their appointments at any time with or without cause, and shall determine their salaries and the other terms and conditions of their employment.

(B) Powers and Duties. The administrator has the power and duty to:

(1) employ or retain attorneys, investigators, and staff with the approval of the commission;

(2) supervise the attorneys, investigators, and staff;

(3) assist the public in preparing requests for investigation;

(4) maintain the commission records created as a result of these rules;

(5) investigate alleged misconduct of attorneys, including initiating an investigation in his or her own name if necessary;

(6) prosecute complaints the commission authorizes;

(7) prosecute or defend reviews and appeals as the commission authorizes; and

(8) report to the Supreme Court at least quarterly regarding the commission’s activities, and to submit a joint annual report with the board that summarizes the activities of both agencies during the past year; and

(9) perform other duties provided in these rules or assigned by the commission.

(1) The administrator may appoint and retain volunteer legal counsel needed to prosecute proceedings under these rules.

(2) Legal counsel may

(a) commence proceedings under this subchapter;

(b) present evidence relating to disciplinary and court proceedings;

(d) inform the administrator about the progress of cases assigned; and

(e) perform other duties assigned by the administrator.

Rule 9.110 Attorney Discipline Board

(A) Authority of Board. The Attorney Discipline Board is the adjudicative arm of the Supreme Court for discharge of its exclusive constitutional responsibility to supervise and discipline Michigan attorneys and those temporarily admitted to practice under MCR 8.126 or otherwise subject to the disciplinary authority of the Supreme Court.

(B) Composition. The board consists of 6 attorneys and 3 laypersons appointed by the Supreme Court. The members serve 3-year terms. A member may not serve more than 2 full terms.

(C) Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson. The Supreme Court shall designate from among the members of the board a chairperson and a vice-chairperson who shall serve 1-year terms in those offices. The commencement and termination dates of the 1-year terms shall coincide appropriately with the 3-year board terms of those officers and the other board members. The Supreme Court may reappoint these officers for additional terms and may remove an officer prior to the expiration of a term. An officer appointed to fill a midterm vacancy shall serve the remainder of that term and may be reappointed to serve two full terms.

(D) Internal Rules.

(1) The board must elect annually from among its membership a secretary to supervise the keeping of the minutes of the board’s meetings and the issuance of the required notices.

(2) Five members constitute a quorum. The board acts by a majority vote of the members present.

(3) The board shall meet monthly as often as necessary to maintain a current docket, but no less than every 2 months, at a time and place the chairperson designates.

(4) A special meeting may be called by the chairperson or by petition of 3 board members on 7 days’ written notice. The notice may be waived in writing or by attending the meeting.

(E) Powers and Duties. The board has the power and duty to:

(1) appoint an attorney to serve as its general counsel and executive director;

(2) appoint hearing panels, masters, monitors and mentors;

(3) assign a proceeding under this subchapter to a hearing panel or to a master, except that a proceeding for reinstatement under MCR 9.124 may not be assigned to a master;

(4) on request of the respondent, the administrator, or the complainant, review a final order of discipline or dismissal by a hearing panel;

(5) on leave granted by the board, review a nonfinal order of a hearing panel;

(6) discipline and reinstate attorneys under these rules and exercise continuing jurisdiction over orders of discipline and reinstatement;

(7) file with the Supreme Court clerk its orders of suspension, disbarment, and reinstatement;

(8) annually propose a budget for the board and submit it to the Supreme Court for approval;

(9) report to the Supreme Court at least quarterly regarding its activities, and to submit a joint annual report with the Attorney Grievance Commission that summarizes the activities of both agencies during the past year; and

(10) submit to the Supreme Court proposed changes in these rules.

Rule 9.111 Hearing Panels

(A) Composition; Quorum. The board must establish hearing panels from a list of volunteer lawyers maintained by its executive director. The board must annually appoint 3 attorneys to each hearing panel and must fill a vacancy as it occurs. Following appointment, the board may designate the panel’s chairperson, vice-chairperson and secretary. Thereafter, a hearing panel may elect a chairperson, vice-chairperson and secretary. A hearing panel must convene at the time and place designated by its chairperson or by the board. Two members constitute a quorum. A hearing panel acts by a majority vote. If a panel is unable to reach a majority decision, the matter shall be referred to the board for reassignment to a new panel.

(B) Hearing Panelists or Masters; Discipline.

(1) An attorney shall not be appointed as a hearing panelist or master if he or she:

(a) has ever been the subject of an order that imposes discipline, or

(b) has been admonished or placed on contractual probation within the preceding 5 years.

(2) A hearing panelist or master who becomes the subject of an order imposing discipline, an admonition, or placement on contractual probation shall be removed from the roster of hearing panelists. A hearing panelist or master who becomes the subject of a formal discipline proceeding shall be removed from consideration of any pending matter; shall be placed on the ADB’s roster of inactive panelists; and shall not be assigned to a panel until the formal discipline proceeding has been resolved. A hearing panelist or master who becomes the subject of an otherwise confidential request for investigation must disclose that investigation to the parties in the matter before the panelist or master, or must disqualify himself or herself from participation in the matter.

(1) Schedule a public hearing on a proceeding under this subchapter assigned to it within 56 days after the proceeding is commenced or after the date that notice of the reinstatement is published, except that a proceeding for reciprocal discipline shall be governed by MCR 9.120. A hearing must be concluded within 91 days after it is begun, unless the board grants an extension for good cause.

(2) Receive evidence and make written findings of fact.

(3) Discipline and reinstate attorneys or dismiss a complaint by order under these rules and exercise continuing jurisdiction over its orders of discipline and reinstatement.

(4) Report its actions to the board within 35 days of the later of the filing of the transcript or the closing of the record, unless extended by the board chairperson.

(5) Perform other duties provided in these rules.

Rule 9.112 Requests for Investigation

(A) Availability to Public. The administrator shall furnish a form for a request for investigation to a person who alleges misconduct against an attorney. Use of the form is not required for filing a request for investigation.

(B) Form of Request. A request for investigation of alleged misconduct must

(1) be in writing;

(2) describe the alleged misconduct, including the approximate time and place of it;

(3) be signed by the complainant; and

(4) be filed with the administrator.

(1) Request for Investigation of Attorney. After a preliminary review, the administrator shall either

(a) notify the complainant and the respondent that the allegations of the request for investigation are inadequate, incomplete, or insufficient to warrant the further attention of the commission; or

(b) serve a copy of the request for investigation on the respondent by ordinary mail at the respondent’s address on file with the State Bar as required by Rule 2 of the Supreme Court Rules Concerning the State Bar of Michigan. Service is effective at the time of mailing, and nondelivery does not affect the validity of service. If a respondent has not filed an answer, no formal complaint shall be filed with the board unless the administrator has served the request for investigation by registered or certified mail return receipt requested.

(2) Request for Investigation of Judge. The administrator shall forward to the Judicial Tenure Commission a request for investigation of a judge, even if the request arises from the judge’s conduct before he or she became a judge or from conduct unconnected with his or her judicial office. MCR 9.116 thereafter governs.

(3) Request for Investigation of Member or Employee of Commission or Board, or the Relative of Member or Employee of Commission or Board. Except as modified by MCR 9.131, MCR 9.104-9.130 apply to a request for investigation of an attorney who is a member of or is employed by the board or the commission, or who is a relative of a member or employee of the board or commission.

“Relative” includes spouse, child, parent, brother, sister, grandparent, grandchild, first cousin, uncle, aunt, niece, nephew, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, mother-in-law, and father-in-law, whether natural, adopted, step or foster. The term also includes same-sex or different-sex individuals who have a relationship of a romantic, intimate, committed, or dating nature.

(D) Subpoenas.

(1) After the request for investigation has been served on the respondent, the commission may issue subpoenas to require the appearance of a witness or the production of documents or other tangible things concerning matters then under investigation. Upon request filed with the board, the board chairperson may quash or modify the subpoena if compliance would be unreasonable or oppressive. Documents or other tangible things so produced may be retained by the grievance administrator, copied, or may be subjected to nondestructive testing. Subpoenas shall be returnable before the administrator or a person designated by the administrator.

(2) A person who without just cause, after being commanded by a subpoena, fails or refuses to appear or give evidence, to be sworn or affirmed, or to answer a proper question after being ordered to do so is in contempt. The administrator may initiate a contempt proceeding before the board chairperson or his or her designee, or under MCR 3.606 in the circuit court for the county where the act or refusal to act occurred. In the event of a finding of contempt by the respondent, the respondent’s license to practice law may be suspended until he or she complies with the order of the board chairperson or his or her designee.

(3) A subpoena issued pursuant to this subrule and certified by the commission chairperson shall be sufficient authorization for taking a deposition or seeking the production of evidence outside the State of Michigan. If the deponent or the person possessing the subpoenaed evidence will not comply voluntarily, the proponent of the subpoena may utilize MCR 2.305(D) or any similar provision in a statute or court rule of Michigan or of the state, territory, or country where the deponent or possessor resides or is present.

(4) Upon receipt of a subpoena certified to be duly issued under the rules or laws of another lawyer disciplinary or admissions jurisdiction, the administrator may issue a subpoena directing a person domiciled or found within the state of Michigan to give testimony and/or produce documents or other things for use in the other lawyer disciplinary proceedings as directed in the subpoena of the other jurisdiction. The practice and procedure applicable to subpoenas issued under this subdivision shall be that of the other jurisdiction, except that:

(a) the testimony or production shall be only in the county where the person resides or is employed, or as otherwise fixed by the grievance administrator for good cause shown; and,

(b) compliance with any subpoena issued pursuant to this subdivision and contempt for failure in this respect shall be sought as elsewhere provided in this subchapter.

(5) Notwithstanding any other provision of this rule, a subpoena issued under this rule may require a party or witness to appear by telephone or by videoconferencing technology. Telephonic proceedings are subject to the provisions of MCR 2.402, and videoconference proceedings are subject to the provisions of MCR 2.407.

Rule 9.113 Answer by Respondent

(A) Answer. Within 21 days after being served with a request for investigation under MCR 9.112(C)(1)(b) or such further time as permitted by the administrator, the respondent shall file with the administrator a written answer signed by respondent in duplicate fully and fairly disclosing all the facts and circumstances pertaining to the alleged misconduct. Misrepresentation in the answer is grounds for discipline. Respondent’s signature constitutes verification that he or she has read the document. The administrator shall provide a copy of the answer and any supporting documents, or documents related to a refusal to answer under MCR 9.113(B)(1), to the person who filed the request for investigation. If the administrator determines that there is cause for not disclosing some or all of the answer or documents supporting the answer, then the administrator need not provide those portions of the answer or the supporting documents to the person who filed the request for investigation.

(B) Refusal or Failure to Answer.

(1) A respondent may refuse to answer a request for investigation on expressed constitutional or professional grounds.

(2) The failure of a respondent to answer within the time period required under these rules other than as permitted in subrule (B)(1), or as further permitted by the administrator is misconduct. See MCR 9.104(A)(7).

(3) If a respondent refuses to answer under subrule (B)(1), the refusal may be submitted under seal to a hearing panel for adjudication. If a panel finds that the refusal was not proper, it shall direct the attorney to answer the request for investigation within 21 days after its order.

(C) Attorney-Client Privilege. A person who files a request for investigation of an attorney irrevocably waives any attorney-client privilege that he or she may have as to matters relating to the request for the purposes of the commission’s investigation.

(D) Representation by Attorney. The respondent may be represented by an attorney.

Rule 9.114 Action by Administrator or Commission After Answer

(A) Action After Investigation. After an answer is filed or the time for filing an answer has expired, the administrator may

(1) dismiss the request for investigation and notify the complainant and the respondent of the reasons for the dismissal,

(2) conduct further investigation. Upon completion of the investigation, the grievance administrator shall refer the matter to the commission for its review. The commission may direct that a complaint be filed, that the file be closed, that the respondent be admonished or placed on contractual probation with the respondent’s consent, or

(3) close a file administratively where warranted under the circumstances.

(B) Admonition. With a respondent’s consent, a respondent may be admonished by the commission without filing a complaint. An admonition does not constitute discipline and shall be confidential except as provided by this rule, MCR 9.115(J)(3) and by MCR 9.126(D)(4).

(1) The administrator shall notify the respondent of the provisions of this rule by ordinary mail at the respondent’s address on file with the state bar as required by Rule 2 of the Supreme Court Rules Concerning the State Bar of Michigan, or as otherwise directed by respondent.

(2) The respondent may, within 21 days of service of the admonition or such additional time as permitted by the administrator, notify the commission in writing that respondent objects to the admonition. Upon timely receipt of the written objection, the commission shall vacate the admonition and either dismiss the request for investigation or authorize the filing of a complaint. Failure of a respondent to object constitutes an acceptance.

(C) Contractual Probation. For purposes of this subrule, “contractual probation” means the placement of a consenting respondent on probation by the commission, without the filing of formal charges. Contractual probation does not constitute discipline, and shall be confidential under MCR 9.126 except as provided by MCR 9.115(J)(3).

(1) If the commission finds that the alleged misconduct, if proven, would not result in disbarment or a substantial suspension of a respondent’s license to practice law, the commission may defer disposition of the matter and place the respondent on contractual probation for a period not to exceed three years, provided the following criteria are met:

(a) the misconduct is significantly related to respondent’s substance abuse problem, or mental or physical infirmity or disability,

(b) the terms and conditions of the contractual probation, which shall include an appropriate period of treatment, are agreed upon by the commission and the respondent, and

(c) the commission determines that contractual probation is appropriate and in the best interests of the public, the courts, the legal profession, and the respondent.

(2) A contractual probation may include one or more of these requirements:

(a) Periodic alcohol or drug testing.

(b) Attendance at support-group or comparable meetings.

(d) An initial written diagnosis and prognosis by the provider followed by quarterly verification of treatment by the provider as agreed upon by the commission and the respondent. The provider shall notify the commission of any failure to adhere to the treatment plan.

(3) The respondent is responsible for any costs associated with the contractual probation and related treatment.

(4) Upon written notice to the respondent and an opportunity to file written objections, the commission may terminate the contractual probation and file disciplinary proceedings or take other appropriate action based on the misconduct, if

(a) the respondent fails to satisfactorily complete the terms and conditions of the contractual probation, or

(b) the commission concludes that the respondent has committed other misconduct that warrants the filing of a formal complaint.

(5) The placing of a respondent on contractual probation shall constitute a final disposition that entitles the complainant to notice in accordance with MCR 9.114(D), and to file an action in accordance with MCR 9.122(A)(2).

(D) Assistance of Law Enforcement Agencies. The administrator may request a law enforcement office to assist in an investigation by furnishing all available information about the respondent. Law enforcement officers are requested to comply promptly with each request.

(E) Assistance of Courts. If the grievance administrator determines that a nonpublic court file exists, including files on expunged convictions, and that it is relevant to a pending investigation concerning a respondent attorney, the administrator may request that a court release to the Attorney Grievance Commission the nonpublic court file. Courts are requested to comply promptly with each request.

(F) Report by Administrator. The administrator shall inform the complainant and, if the respondent answered, the respondent, of the final disposition of every request for investigation.

(G) Retention of Records. All files and records relating to allegations of misconduct by an attorney must be retained by the commission for the lifetime of the attorney, except as follows:

(1) Where 3 years have passed from the conclusion of formal disciplinary action or the issuance of an admonishment, nonessential documents may be discarded.

(2) The administrator may destroy the files or records relating to a closed or dismissed request for investigation after 3 years have elapsed from the date of dismissal or closing.

(3) If no request for investigation was pending when the files or records were created or acquired, and no related request for investigation was filed subsequently, the administrator may destroy the files or records after 1 year has elapsed from the date when they were created or acquired by the commission.

Rule 9.115 Hearing Panel Procedure

(A) Rules Applicable. Except as otherwise provided in these rules, the rules governing practice and procedure in a nonjury civil action apply to a proceeding before a hearing panel. Pleadings must conform as nearly as practicable to the requirements of subchapter 2.100. The original of the formal complaint and all other pleadings must be filed with the board. The formal complaint must be served on the respondent. All other pleadings must be served on the opposing party and each member of the hearing panel. Proof of service of the formal complaint may be filed at any time prior to the date of the hearing. Proof of service of all other pleadings must be filed with the original pleadings.

(B) Complaint. Except as provided by MCR 9.120, a complaint setting forth the facts of the alleged misconduct begins proceedings before a hearing panel. The administrator shall prepare the complaint, file it with the board, and serve it on the respondent and a respondent’s employer. The unwillingness of a complainant to proceed, or a settlement between the complainant and the respondent, does not itself affect the right of the administrator to proceed.

(C) Service. Service of the complaint and a default must be made by personal service or by registered or certified mail addressed to the person at the person’s last known address. An attorney’s last known address is the address on file with the state bar as required by Rule 2 of the Supreme Court Rules Concerning the State Bar of Michigan. A respondent’s attorney of record must also be served, but service may be made under MCR 2.107. Service is effective at the time of mailing, and nondelivery does not affect the validity of the service.

(D) Answer.

(1) A respondent must serve and file a signed answer or take other action permitted by law or these rules within 21 days after being served with the complaint in the manner provided in MCR 9.115(C). A signature constitutes verification that the respondent has read the answer or other response.

(2) A default, with the same effect as a default in a civil action, may enter against a respondent who fails within the time permitted to file an answer admitting, denying, or explaining the complaint, or asserting the grounds for failing to do so.

(E) Representation by Attorney. The respondent may be represented by an attorney, who must enter an appearance, which has the same effect as an appearance under MCR 2.117.

(F) Prehearing Procedure.

(1) Extensions. If good cause is shown, the hearing panel chairperson may grant one extension of time per party for filing pleadings and may grant one adjournment per party. Additional requests may be granted by the board chairperson if good cause is shown. Pending criminal or civil litigation of substantial similarity to the allegations of the complaint is not necessarily grounds for an adjournment.

(2) Motion to Disqualify.

(a) Within 14 days after an answer has been filed or the time for filing the answer has expired, each member of the hearing panel shall disclose in a writing filed with the board any information that the member believes could be grounds for disqualification under the guidelines of MCR 2.003(C), including pending requests for investigation filed against the member. The duty to disclose shall be a continuing one. The board shall serve a copy of the disclosure on each party and each panel member.

(b) A motion to disqualify must be filed within 14 days after the moving party discovers the ground for disqualification. If the discovery is made within 14 days of the hearing date, the motion must be made forthwith. If a motion is not timely filed, untimeliness is a factor in deciding whether the motion should be granted. All known grounds for disqualification must be included at the time the motion is filed. An affidavit must accompany the motion. The board chairperson shall decide the motion under the guidelines of MCR 2.003.

(c) The board must assign a substitute for a disqualified member of a hearing panel. If all are disqualified, the board must reassign the complaint to another panel.

(3) Amendment of Pleadings. The administrator and the respondent each may amend a pleading once as a matter of course within 14 days after being served with a responsive pleading by the opposing party, or within 15 days after serving the pleading if it does not require a responsive pleading. Otherwise, a party may amend a pleading only by leave granted by the hearing panel chairperson or with the written consent of the adverse party.

(4) Discovery. Pretrial or discovery proceedings are not permitted, except as follows:

(a) Within 21 days after the service of a formal complaint, a party may demand in writing that documentary evidence that is to be introduced at the hearing by the opposing party be made available for inspection or copying. Within 14 days after service of a written demand, the documents shall be made available, provided that the administrator need not comply prior to the filing of the respondent’s answer; in such case, the administrator shall comply with the written demand within 14 days after the filing of the respondent’s answer. The respondent shall comply with the written demand within 14 days, except that the respondent need not comply until the time for filing an answer to the formal complaint has expired. Any other documentary evidence to be introduced at the hearing by either party shall be supplied to the other party no later than 14 days prior to the hearing. Any documentary evidence not so supplied shall be excluded from the hearing except for good cause shown.

(i) Within 21 days after the service of a formal complaint, a party may demand in writing that the opposing party supply written notification of the name and address of any person to be called as a witness at the hearing. Within 14 days after the service of a written demand, the notification shall be supplied. However, the administrator need not comply prior to the filing of the respondent’s answer to the formal complaint; in such cases, the administrator shall comply with the written demand within 14 days of the filing of the respondent’s answer to the formal complaint. The respondent shall comply with the written demand within 14 days, except that the respondent need not comply until the time for filing an answer to the formal complaint has expired. Except for good cause shown, a party who is required to give said notification must give supplemental notice to the adverse party within 7 days after any additional witness has been identified, and must give the supplemental notice immediately if the additional witness is identified less than 14 days before a scheduled hearing.

(ii) Within 21 days following the filing of an answer, the administrator and respondent shall exchange the names and addresses of all persons having knowledge of relevant facts and comply with reasonable requests for (1) non-privileged information and evidence relevant to the charges against the respondent, and (2) other material upon good cause shown to the chair of the hearing panel.

(b) A deposition may be taken of a witness who lives outside the state or is physically unable to attend the hearing. For good cause shown, the hearing panel may allow the parties to depose other witnesses.

(c) The hearing panel may order a prehearing conference held before a panel member to obtain admissions or otherwise narrow the issues presented by the pleadings.

If a party fails to comply with subrule (F)(4)(a), the hearing panel or the board may, on motion and showing of material prejudice as a result of the failure, impose one or more of the sanctions set forth in MCR 2.313(B)(2)(a)-(c).

(5) Discipline by Consent.

(a) In exchange for a stated form of discipline and on the condition that the plea or admission is accepted by the commission and the hearing panel, a respondent may offer to

(i) plead no contest to or admit all or some of the facts and misconduct alleged in the complaint or otherwise agreed to by the parties or

(ii) stipulate to facts and misconduct in a proceeding filed under subchapter 9.100 not initiated by a formal complaint.

The respondent’s offer shall first be submitted to the commission. If an agreement is reached with the commission, the administrator and the respondent shall file with the board and the hearing panel a stipulation for a consent order of discipline. At the time of the filing, the administrator shall serve a copy of the stipulation upon the complainant.

(b) The stipulation shall include:

(i) admissions, which may be contained in an answer to the complaint, or a plea of no contest to facts sufficient to enable the hearing panel to determine the nature of the misconduct and conclude that the discipline proposed is appropriate in light of the identified misconduct;

(ii) citation to the applicable American Bar Association Standards for Imposing Lawyer Sanctions; and

(iii) disclosure of prior discipline.

Admonishments and contractual probations shall be filed separately and kept confidential until the hearing panel accepts the stipulation under this rule.

(i) approve the stipulation and file a report and enter a final order of discipline; or

(ii) communicate with the administrator and the respondent about any concerns it may have regarding the stipulation. Before rejecting a stipulation, a hearing panel shall advise the parties that it is considering rejecting a stipulation and the basis for the rejection. The hearing panel shall provide an opportunity, at a status conference or comparable proceeding, for the parties to offer additional information in support of the stipulation.

(d) If a hearing panel rejects a stipulation, the hearing panel shall advise the parties in writing of its reason or reasons for rejecting the stipulation and allow the parties an opportunity to submit an amended stipulation.

(e) If a hearing panel rejects an amended stipulation, or if no amended stipulation is filed within 21 days after rejection of the initial stipulation, the matter shall be reassigned to a different hearing panel. Upon reassignment to a different hearing panel,

(i) the stipulation and any amended stipulation shall be deemed withdrawn,

(ii) statements and stipulations made in connection with the stipulation and any amended stipulation shall be inadmissible in disciplinary proceedings against the respondent and not binding on either party, and

(iii) the newly assigned hearing panel shall conduct a hearing.

(G) Hearing Time and Place; Notice. The board or the chairperson of the hearing panel shall set the time and place for a hearing. Notice of a hearing must be served by the board or the chairperson of the hearing panel on the administrator, the respondent, the complainant, and any attorney of record at least 21 days before the initial hearing. Unless the board or the chairperson of the hearing panel otherwise directs, the hearing must be in the county in which the respondent has or last had an office or residence. If the hearing panel fails to convene or complete its hearing within a reasonable time, the board may reassign the complaint to another panel or to a master. A party may file a motion for a change of venue. The motion must be filed with the board and shall be decided by the board chairperson, in part, on the basis of the guidelines in MCR 2.221. Notwithstanding MRE 615, there shall be a presumption that a complainant is entitled to be present during a hearing, which may only be overcome upon a finding by the panel, supported by facts that are particular to the proceeding, that testimony by the complainant is likely to be materially affected by exposure to other testimony at the hearing.

(H) Respondent’s Appearance. The respondent shall personally appear at the hearing, unless excused by the panel, and is subject to cross-examination as an opposite party under MCL 600.2161.

(1) Where satisfactory proofs are entered into the record that a respondent possessed actual notice of the proceedings, but who still failed to appear, a panel shall suspend him or her effective 7 days from the date of entry of the order and until further order of the panel or the board.

(2) If the respondent, or the respondent’s attorney on his or her behalf, claims physical or mental incapacity as a reason for the respondent’s failure to appear before a hearing panel or the board, the panel or the board on its own initiative may, effective immediately, suspend the respondent from the practice of law until further order of the panel or board. The order of suspension must be filed and served as other orders of discipline.

(I) Hearing; Contempt.

(1) A hearing panel may issue subpoenas (including subpoenas for production of documents and other tangible things), cause testimony to be taken under oath, and rule on the admissibility of evidence under the Michigan Rules of Evidence. The oath or affirmation may be administered by a panel member. A subpoena must be issued in the name and under the seal of the board. It must be signed by a panel or board member, by the administrator, or by the respondent or the respondent’s attorney. A subpoenaed witness must be paid the same fee and mileage as a witness subpoenaed to testify in the circuit court. Parties must notify their own witnesses of the date, time, and place of the hearing.

(2) A person who without just cause fails or refuses to appear and give evidence as commanded by a subpoena, to be sworn or affirmed, or to answer a proper question after he or she has been ordered to do so, is in contempt. The administrator may initiate a contempt proceeding under MCR 3.606 in the circuit court for the county where the act or refusal to act occurred.

(3) Upon a showing of good cause by a party, a panel may permit a witness to testify by telephonic, voice, or video conferencing.

(4) Notwithstanding any other provision of this rule, a subpoena issued under this rule may require a party or witness to appear by telephone or by videoconferencing technology. Telephonic proceedings are subject to the provisions of MCR 2.402, and videoconference proceedings are subject to the provisions of MCR 2.407.

(J) Decision.

(1) The hearing panel must file a report on its decisions regarding the misconduct charges and, if applicable, the resulting discipline. The report must include a certified transcript, a summary of the evidence, pleadings, exhibits and briefs, and findings of fact. The discipline section of the report must also include a summary of all previous misconduct for which the respondent was disciplined, admonished, or placed on contractual probation.

(2) Upon a finding of misconduct, the hearing panel shall conduct a separate sanction hearing to determine the appropriate discipline. The sanction hearing shall be conducted as soon after the finding of misconduct as is practicable and may be held immediately following the panel’s ruling that misconduct has been established.

(3) If the hearing panel finds that the charge of misconduct is established by a preponderance of the evidence, it must enter an order of discipline. The order shall take effect 21 days after it is served on the respondent unless the panel finds good cause for the order to take effect on a different date, in which event the panel’s decision must explain the reasons for ordering a different effective date. The discipline ordered may be concurrent or consecutive to other discipline. In determining the discipline to be imposed, any and all relevant evidence of aggravation or mitigation shall be admissible, including, but not limited to, records of the board, previous admonitions and orders of discipline, and the previous placement of the respondent on contractual probation.

(4) If the hearing panel finds that the charge of misconduct is not established by a preponderance of the evidence, it must enter an order dismissing the complaint.

(5) The report and order must be signed by the panel chairperson and filed with the board and the administrator. A copy must be served on the parties as required by these rules.

(K) Stay of Discipline. If a discipline order is a suspension of 179 days or less, a stay of the discipline order will automatically issue on the timely filing by the respondent of a petition for review and a petition for a stay of the discipline. If the discipline ordered is more severe than a suspension of 179 days, the respondent may petition the board for a stay pending review of the discipline order. Once granted, a stay remains effective until the further order of the board.

(L) Enforcement. The administrator shall take the necessary steps to enforce a discipline order after it is effective.

(M) Resignation by Respondent; Admission of Charges. An attorney’s resignation may not be accepted while a request for investigation or a complaint is pending, except pursuant to an order of disbarment.

Rule 9.116 Judges; Former Judges

(A) Judges. The administrator or commission may not take action against an incumbent judge, except that this rule does not prohibit an action by the administrator or commission against:

(1) a magistrate or referee for misconduct unrelated to judicial functions, whether before or during the period when the person serves as a magistrate or referee; or

(2) a visiting judge as provided in MCR 9.211(E). If the Judicial Tenure Commission receives a request for investigation of a magistrate or referee or visiting judge arising from the practice of law, the Judicial Tenure Commission shall refer the matter to the administrator or commission for investigation in the first instance. If the administrator or the commission dismisses the request for investigation referred by the Judicial Tenure Commission, or a request for investigation of a magistrate, referee or visiting judge submitted directly to the commission by a complainant, the administrator or commission shall notify the Judicial Tenure Commission, which may take action as it deems appropriate.

(B) Former Judges. The administrator or commission may take action against a former judge for conduct resulting in removal as a judge, and for any conduct which was not the subject of a disposition by the Judicial Tenure Commission or by the Court. The administrator or commission may not take action against a former judge for conduct where the court imposed a sanction less than removal or the Judicial Tenure Commission has taken any action under MCR 9.223(A)(1)-(5).

(C) Judicial Tenure Commission Record. The record of the Judicial Tenure Commission proceeding is admissible at a hearing involving a former judge. The administrator or the respondent may introduce additional evidence.

Rule 9.117 Hearing Procedure Before Master

If the board assigns a complaint to a master, the master shall hold a public hearing on the complaint and receive evidence. To the extent that MCR 9.115 may be applied, it governs procedure before a master. After the hearing, the master shall prepare a report containing

(1) a brief statement of the proceedings,

(2) findings of fact, and

(3) conclusions of law.

The master shall file the report with a hearing panel designated by the board and serve a copy on the administrator and the respondent. Within 14 days after the report is filed, the administrator or the respondent may file objections to the report and a supporting brief. The panel must determine if the record supports the findings of fact and conclusions of law and impose discipline, if warranted. Further proceedings are governed by MCR 9.118.

Rule 9.118 Review of Order of Hearing Panel

(A) Review of Order; Time.

(1) The administrator, the complainant, or the respondent may petition the board in writing to review the order of a hearing panel filed under MCR 9.113(B), 9.115, 9.116, 9.120, 9.121 or 9.124. The board may grant review of a nonfinal order and decide such interlocutory matters without a hearing. A petition for review must set forth the reasons and the grounds on which review is sought and must be filed with the board within 21 days after the order is served. The petitioner must serve copies of the petition and the accompanying documents on the other party and the complainant and file a proof of service with the board.

(2) A cross-petition for review may be filed within 21 days after the petition for review is served on the cross-petitioner. The cross-petition must be served on the other party and the complainant, and a proof of service must be filed with the board.

(3) A delayed petition for review may be considered by the board chairperson under the guidelines of MCR 7.205(A)(4). If a petition for review is filed more than 12 months after the order of the hearing panel is entered, the petition may not be granted.

(B) Order to Show Cause. If a petition for review is timely filed or a delayed petition for review is accepted for filing, the board shall issue an order to show cause, at a date and time specified, why the order of the hearing panel should not be affirmed. The order shall establish a briefing schedule for all parties and may require that an answer to the petition or cross-petition be filed. An opposing party may file an answer even if the order does not require one. The board must serve the order to show cause on the administrator, respondent, and complainant at least 21 days before the hearing. Failure to comply with the order to show cause, including, but not limited to, a requirement for briefs, may be grounds for dismissal of a petition for review. Dismissal of a petition for review shall not affect the validity of a cross-petition for review.

(1) A hearing on the order to show cause must be heard by a subboard of at least 3 board members assigned by the chairperson. The board must make a final decision on consideration of the whole record, including a transcript of the presentation made to the subboard and the subboard’s recommendation. The respondent shall appear personally at the review hearing unless excused by the board. Failure to appear may result in denial of any relief sought by the respondent, or any other action allowable under MCR 9.118(D).

(2) If the board believes that additional testimony should be taken, it may refer the case to a hearing panel or a master. The panel or the master shall then take the additional testimony and shall make a supplemental report, including a transcript of the additional testimony, pleadings, exhibits, and briefs with the board. Notice of the filing of the supplemental report and a copy of the report must be served as an original report and order of a hearing panel.

(D) Decision. After the hearing on the order to show cause, the board may affirm, amend, reverse, or nullify the order of the hearing panel in whole or in part or order other discipline. A discipline order is not effective until 28 days after it is served on the respondent unless the board finds good cause for the order to take effect earlier.

(E) Motion for Reconsideration; Stay. A motion for reconsideration may be filed at any time before the board’s order takes effect. An answer to a motion for reconsideration may be filed. If the discipline order is a suspension for 179 days or less, a stay of the discipline order will automatically issue on the timely filing by the respondent of a motion for reconsideration. If the discipline is greater than a 179-day suspension, the respondent may petition for a stay. If the board grants a stay, the stay remains effective for 28 days after the board enters its order granting or denying reconsideration.

(F) Filing Orders. The board must file a copy of its discipline order with the Supreme Court clerk and the clerk of the county where the respondent resides and where his or her office is located. The order must be served on all parties. If the respondent requests it in writing, a dismissal order must be similarly filed and served.

Rule 9.119 Conduct of Disbarred, Suspended, or Inactive Attorneys

(A) Notification to Clients. An attorney who has resigned under Rule 3 of the Rules Concerning the State Bar of Michigan, or been disbarred, or suspended, or who is transferred to inactive status pursuant to MCR 9.121, or who is suspended for nondisciplinary reasons pursuant to Rule 4 of the Supreme Court Rules Concerning the State Bar of Michigan, shall, within 7 days of the effective date of the order of discipline, resignation, the transfer to inactive status or the nondisciplinary suspension, notify all his or her active clients, in writing, by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, of the following:

(1) the nature and duration of the discipline imposed, the transfer to inactive status, or the nondisciplinary suspension, or the resignation;

(2) the effective date of such discipline, transfer to inactive status, or nondisciplinary suspension, or resignation;

(3) the attorney’s inability to act as an attorney after the effective date of such discipline, transfer to inactive status, nondisciplinary suspension, or resignation;

(4) the location and identity of the custodian of the clients’ files and records, which will be made available to them or to substitute counsel;

(5) that the clients may wish to seek legal advice and counsel elsewhere; provided that, if the disbarred, suspended, inactive, or resigned attorney was a member of a law firm, the firm may continue to represent each client with the client’s express written consent;

(6) the address to which all correspondence to the attorney may be addressed.

(B) Conduct in Litigated Matters. In addition to the requirements of subsection (A) of this rule, the affected attorney must, by the effective date of the order of disbarment, suspension, transfer to inactive status, or resignation, in every matter in which the attorney is representing a client in litigation, file with the tribunal and all parties a notice of the attorney’s disqualification from the practice of law. The affected attorney shall either file a motion to withdraw from the representation, or, with the client’s knowledge and consent, a substitution of counsel.

(C) Filing of Proof of Compliance. Within 14 days after the effective date of the order of disbarment, suspension, or transfer to inactive status, pursuant to MCR 9.121, or resignation the disbarred, suspended, inactive, or resigned attorney shall file with the administrator and the board an affidavit showing full compliance with this rule. The affidavit must include as an appendix copies of the disclosure notices and mailing receipts required under subrules (A) and (B) of this rule. The affidavit must set forth any claim by the affected attorney that he or she does not have active clients at the time of the effective date of the change in status. A disbarred, suspended, inactive, or resigned attorney shall keep and maintain records of the various steps taken under this rule so that, in any subsequent proceeding instituted by or against him or her, proof of compliance with this rule and with the disbarment or suspension order will be available.

(D) Conduct After Entry of Order Prior to Effective Date. A disbarred or suspended attorney, after entry of the order of disbarment or suspension and prior to its effective date, shall not accept any new retainer or engagement as attorney for another in any new case or legal matter of any nature, unless specifically authorized by the board chairperson upon a showing of good cause and a finding that it is not contrary to the interests of the public and profession. However, during the period between the entry of the order and its effective date, the suspended or disbarred attorney may complete, on behalf of any existing client, all matters that were pending on the entry date.

(E) Conduct After Effective Date of Order. An attorney who is disbarred, suspended, transferred to inactive status pursuant to MCR 9.121, or who resigns is, during the period of disbarment, suspension, or inactivity, or from and after the date of resignation, forbidden from:

(1) practicing law in any form;

(2) having contact either in person, by telephone, or by electronic means, with clients or potential clients of a lawyer or law firm either as a paralegal, law clerk, legal assistant, or lawyer;

(3) appearing as an attorney before any court, judge, justice, board, commission, or other public authority; and

(4) holding himself or herself out as an attorney by any means.

(F) Compensation of Disbarred, Suspended, Resigned, or Inactive Attorney. An attorney who has been disbarred or suspended, has resigned, or who is transferred to inactive status pursuant to MCR 9.121 may not share in any legal fees for legal services performed by another attorney during the period of disqualification from the practice of law. A disbarred, suspended, resigned, or inactive attorney may be compensated on a quantum meruit basis for legal services rendered and expenses paid by him or her prior to the effective date of the disbarment, suspension, resignation, or transfer to inactive status.

Rule 9.120 Conviction of Criminal Offense; Reciprocal Discipline

(A) Notification of the Grievance Administrator and the Attorney Discipline Board.

(1) When a lawyer is convicted of a crime, the lawyer, the prosecutor or other authority who prosecuted the lawyer, and the defense attorney who represented the lawyer must notify the grievance administrator and the board of the conviction. This notice must be given in writing within 14 days after the conviction.

(2) A lawyer who has been the subject of an order of discipline or transferred to inactive status by any court of record or any body authorized by law or by rule of court to conduct disciplinary proceedings against attorneys, of the United States, or of any state or territory of the United States or of the District of Columbia, or who has resigned from the bar or roster of attorneys in lieu of discipline by, or during the pendency of, discipline proceedings before such court or body shall inform the grievance administrator and board of entry of such order, transfer, or resignation within 14 days of the entry of the order, transfer, or resignation.

(B) Criminal Conviction.

(1) On conviction of a felony, an attorney is automatically suspended until the effective date of an order filed by a hearing panel under MCR 9.115(J). A conviction occurs upon the return of a verdict of guilty or upon the acceptance of a plea of guilty or nolo contendere. The board may, on the attorney’s motion, set aside the automatic suspension when it appears consistent with the maintenance of the integrity and honor of the profession, the protection of the public, and the interests of justice. The board must set aside the automatic suspension if the felony conviction is vacated, reversed, or otherwise set aside for any reason by the trial court or an appellate court.

(2) In a disciplinary proceeding instituted against an attorney based on the attorney’s conviction of a criminal offense, a certified copy of the judgment of conviction is conclusive proof of the commission of the criminal offense.

(3) The administrator may file with the board a judgment of conviction showing that an attorney has violated a criminal law of a state or of the United States, an ordinance, or tribal law pursuant to MCR 2.615. The board shall then order the attorney to show cause why a final order of discipline should not be entered, and the board shall refer the proceeding to a hearing panel for hearing. At the hearing, questions as to the validity of the conviction, alleged trial errors, and the availability of appellate remedies shall not be considered. After the hearing, the panel shall issue an order under MCR 9.115(J).

(4). On a pardon the board may, and on a reversal of the conviction the board must, by order filed and served under MCR 9.118(F), vacate the order of discipline. The attorney’s name must be returned to the roster of Michigan attorneys and counselors at law, but the administrator may nevertheless proceed against the respondent for misconduct which had led to the criminal charge.

(1) A certified copy of a final adjudication by any court of record or any body authorized by law or by rule of court to conduct disciplinary proceedings against attorneys by any state or territory of the United States or of the District of Columbia, a United States court, or a federal administrative agency, determining that an attorney, whether or not admitted in that jurisdiction, has committed misconduct or has been transferred to disability inactive status, shall establish conclusively the misconduct or the disability for purposes of a proceeding under subchapter 9.100 of these rules and comparable discipline or transfer shall be imposed in the Michigan proceeding unless the respondent was not afforded due process of law in the course of the original proceedings, the imposition of comparable discipline or transfer in Michigan would be clearly inappropriate, or the reason for the original transfer to disability inactive status no longer exists.

(2) Upon the filing by the grievance administrator of a certified copy of final adjudication described in paragraph (C)(1) with the board, the board shall issue an order directed to the lawyer and the administrator:

(a) attaching a copy of the order from the other jurisdiction; and

(b) directing, that, within 21 days from service of the order, the lawyer and administrator shall inform the board (i) of any objection to the imposition of comparable discipline or disability inactive status in Michigan based on the grounds set forth in paragraph (C)(1) of this rule, and (ii) whether a hearing is requested.

(3) Upon receipt of an objection to the imposition of comparable discipline or disability inactive status raising one or more of the issues identified in paragraph (C)(1) of this rule, the board shall assign the matter to a hearing panel for disposition. The opposing party shall have 21 days to reply to an objection. If a hearing is requested, and the hearing panel grants the request, the hearing shall be held in accordance with the procedures set forth in MCR 9.115 except as otherwise provided in this rule.

(4) Papers filed under this rule shall conform as nearly as practicable to the requirements of subchapter 2.100 and shall be filed with the board and served on the opposing party and each member of the hearing panel once assigned.

(5) The burden is on the party seeking to avoid the imposition of comparable discipline or transfer to disability inactive status to demonstrate that it is not appropriate for one or more of the grounds set forth in paragraph (C)(1). “Comparable” discipline does not mean that the dates of a period of disqualification from practice in this state must coincide with the dates of the period of disqualification, if any, in the original jurisdiction.

(6) If the 21-day period discussed in paragraph (C)(2)(b) has expired without objection by either party, the respondent is in default, with the same effect as a default in a civil action, and the board shall impose comparable discipline or transfer to disability inactive status unless it appears that one of the grounds set forth in paragraph (C)(1) of this rule requires a different result, in which case the board shall schedule a hearing in accord with paragraph (3) of this rule. An order entered pursuant to this subparagraph may be set aside if the requirements of MCR 2.603(D) are established.

(7) In the event the discipline or transfer to disability inactive status imposed in the original jurisdiction is stayed, any reciprocal discipline imposed in Michigan shall be deferred until the stay expires.

Rule 9.121 Attorney Declared to be Incompetent or Alleged to be Incapacitated or Asserting Impaired Ability

(A) Adjudication by Court. If an attorney has been judicially declared incompetent or involuntarily committed on the grounds of incompetency or disability, the board, on proper proof of the fact, must enter an order effective immediately transferring the attorney to inactive status for an indefinite period and until further order of the board.

(B) Allegations of Incompetency or Incapacity.

(1) If it is alleged in a complaint by the administrator that an attorney is incapacitated to continue the practice of law because of mental or physical infirmity or disability or because of addiction to drugs or intoxicants, a hearing panel shall take action necessary to determine whether the attorney is incapacitated.

(a) Examination.

(i) Upon a showing of good cause that a mental or physical condition is the basis of respondent’s incompetency or incapacity as alleged in a complaint by the administrator, a hearing panel may order respondent to submit to one or more medical examination(s) or psychological examination(s) that are relevant to a condition of respondent shown to be in controversy.

(ii) If testing is ordered, the administrator and respondent may stipulate to the expert(s) who will conduct the examination(s), prepare a report within 28 days of the conclusion of the examination(s), and provide a copy of said report to both parties. The content of a report prepared by an expert(s) pursuant to this paragraph is admissible into evidence in the proceedings, subject to relevancy objections.

(iii) If the administrator and/or respondent hire their own expert(s) to conduct the examination(s), the expert(s) will conduct the examination(s), prepare a report within 28 days of the conclusion of the examination(s), and provide a copy of said report to both parties. A report prepared pursuant to this paragraph is only admissible as substantive evidence upon stipulation by both parties. The respondent will be responsible for the expenses incurred by retaining his or her examiner.

(iv) On its own motion or on the motion of either party, the hearing panel may appoint an expert of its own selection to conduct the necessary examination(s). The expert so appointed will conduct the examination(s), prepare a report within 28 days of the conclusion of the examination(s), and provide a copy of said report to both parties. The content of a report prepared by an expert(s) pursuant to this paragraph is admissible into evidence in the proceedings unless, within 14 days of delivery of the report, a party objects, in which case either party may subpoena the expert(s) to testify at the hearing at that party’s expense.

(b) Expert’s Report

The expert’s report as required by paragraph (a) shall include:

(i) the expert’s resume or curriculum vitae;

(ii) a statement of facts, and a list of the tests that were administered and the test results;

(iii) a diagnosis, prognosis, a statement of limitations on the opinion because of the scope of the examination or testing, and recommendation for treatment, if any; and

(iv) no physician-patient privilege shall apply under this rule.

(2) The hearing panel shall provide notice to the attorney of the proceedings. Upon the request of a party, or on its own motion, and following a finding of good cause, a panel may recommend the appointment of counsel by the board to represent the respondent if he or she is without representation.

(3) If, after a hearing, the hearing panel concludes that the attorney is incapacitated from continuing to practice law, it shall enter an order transferring him or her to inactive status for an indefinite period and until further order of the board.

(4) Pending disciplinary proceedings against the attorney must be held in abeyance.

(5) Proceedings conducted under this subrule are subject to review by the board as provided in MCR 9.118.

(1) If, in response to a formal complaint filed under subrule 9.115(B), the respondent asserts in mitigation and thereafter demonstrates by a preponderance of the evidence that

(a) during the period when the conduct that is the subject of the complaint occurred, his or her ability to practice law competently was materially impaired by physical or mental disability or by drug or alcohol addiction,

(b) the impairment was the cause of or substantially contributed to that conduct,

(d) he or she in good faith intends to undergo treatment, and submits a detailed plan for such treatment, the hearing panel, the board, or the Supreme Court may enter an order placing the respondent on probation for a specific period not to exceed 3 years if it specifically finds that an order of probation is not contrary to the public interest.

(2) If the respondent alleges impairment by physical or mental disability or by drug or alcohol addiction pursuant to subrule (C)(1), the hearing panel may order the respondent to submit to a physical or mental examination in accord with the procedure set forth in MCR 9.121(B)(1)(a). The panel may direct that the expense of the examination be paid by the respondent. A respondent who fails or refuses to comply with an examination order, or refuses to undergo an examination requested by the administrator, shall not be eligible for probation.

(3) The probation order

(a) must specify the treatment the respondent is to undergo,

(b) may require the respondent to practice law only under the direct supervision of other attorneys, or

(c) may include any other terms the evidence shows are likely to eliminate the impairment without subjecting the respondent’s clients or the public to a substantial risk of harm because the respondent is permitted to continue to practice law during the probation period.

(4) A respondent may be placed on probation for up to 3 years. The probation order expires on the date specified in it unless the administrator petitions for, and the hearing panel, board, or court grants, an extension. An extension may not exceed 3 years. A probation order may be dissolved if the respondent demonstrates that the impairment giving rise to the probation order has been removed and that the probation order has been fully complied with, but only one motion to accelerate dissolution of a probation order may be filed during the probation period.

(5) On proof that a respondent has violated a probation order, he or she may be suspended or disbarred.

(D) Publication of Change in Status. The board must publish in the Michigan Bar Journal a notice of transfer to inactive status. A copy of the notice and the order must be filed and served under MCR 9.118.

(E) Reinstatement. An attorney transferred to inactive status under this rule may not resume active status until reinstated by the board’s order and, if inactive 3 years or more, recertified by the Board of Law Examiners. The attorney may petition for reinstatement to active status once a year or at shorter intervals as the board may direct. A petition for reinstatement must be granted by a panel on a showing by clear and convincing evidence that the attorney’s disability has been removed and that he or she is fit to resume the practice of law. A panel may take the action necessary to determine whether the attorney’s disability has been removed, including an examination of the attorney conducted in accord with the procedure set forth in MCR 9.121(B)(1)(a). The panel may direct that the expense of the examination be paid by the attorney. If an attorney was transferred to inactive status under subrule 9.121(A) and subsequently has been judicially declared to be competent, a panel may dispense with further evidence that the disability has been removed and may order reinstatement to active status on terms it finds proper and advisable, including recertification.

(F) Waiver of Privilege. By filing a petition for reinstatement to active status under this rule, the attorney waives the doctor-patient privilege with respect to treatment during the period of his or her disability. The attorney shall disclose the name of every psychiatrist, psychologist, physician, and hospital or other institution by whom or in which the attorney has been examined or treated since the transfer to inactive status. The attorney shall furnish to a panel written consent for each to divulge whatever information and records are requested by the panel’s medical or psychological experts.

Rule 9.122 Review by Supreme Court

(A) Kinds Available; Time for Filing.

(1) A party aggrieved, including the complainant, by a final order entered by the board on review under MCR 9.118, may apply for leave to appeal to the Supreme Court under MCR 7.305 within 28 days after the order is entered. If a motion for reconsideration is filed before the board’s order takes effect, the application for leave to appeal to the Supreme Court may be filed within 28 days after the board enters its order granting or denying reconsideration.

(2) If a request for investigation has been dismissed under MCR 9.112(C)(1)(a) or 9.114(A), a party aggrieved by the dismissal may file a complaint in the Supreme Court under MCR 7.306 within 182 days after the date of the letter notifying the party of the dismissal.

(B) Rules Applicable. Except as modified by this rule, subchapter 7.300 governs an appeal.

(C) Stay of Order. If the discipline order is a suspension of 179 days or less, a stay of the order will automatically issue on the timely filing of an appeal by the respondent. The stay remains effective for 21 days following the conclusion of the appeal or further order of the Supreme Court. The respondent may petition the Supreme Court for a stay pending appeal of other orders of the board.

(D) Record on Appeal. The original papers constitute the record on appeal. The board shall certify the original record and file it with the Supreme Court promptly after the briefs of the parties have been filed. The record must include a list of docket entries, a transcript of testimony taken, and all pleadings, exhibits, briefs, findings of fact, and orders in the proceeding. If the record contains material protected, the protection continues unless otherwise ordered by the Supreme Court.

(E) Disposition. The Supreme Court may make any order it deems appropriate, including dismissing the appeal. The parties may stipulate to dismiss the appeal with prejudice.

Rule 9.123 Eligibility for Reinstatement

(A) Suspension, 179 Days or Less. An attorney whose license has been suspended for 179 days or less pursuant to disciplinary proceedings may be reinstated in accordance with this rule. The attorney may file, not sooner than 7 days before the last day of the suspension, with the board and serve on the administrator an affidavit showing that the attorney has fully complied with all requirements of the suspension order. The affidavit must contain a statement that the attorney will continue to comply with the suspension order until the attorney is reinstated. A materially false statement contained in the affidavit is a basis for an action by the administrator and additional discipline. Within 7 days after the filing of the affidavit, the administrator may file with the board and serve on the attorney an objection to reinstatement based on the attorney’s failure to demonstrate compliance with the suspension order. If the administrator files an objection, an order of reinstatement will be issued only if the objection is withdrawn or a hearing panel makes a determination that the attorney has complied with the suspension order. An objection which cannot be resolved without the adjudication of a disputed issue of fact shall be promptly referred to a hearing panel for decision on an expedited basis. If the administrator does not file an objection and the board is not otherwise apprised of a basis to conclude that the attorney has failed to comply with the suspension order, the board must promptly issue an order of reinstatement. The order must be filed and served under MCR 9.118(F).

(B) Disbarment or Suspension More Than 179 Days. An attorney whose license to practice law has been revoked or suspended for more than 179 days is not eligible for reinstatement until the attorney has petitioned for reinstatement under MCR 9.124 and has established by clear and convincing evidence that:

(1) he or she desires in good faith to be restored to the privilege of practicing law in Michigan;

(2) the term of the suspension ordered has elapsed or 5 years have elapsed since his or her disbarment or resignation;

(3) he or she has not practiced or attempted to practice law contrary to the requirement of his or her suspension or disbarment;

(4) he or she has complied fully with the order of discipline;

(5) his or her conduct since the order of discipline has been exemplary and above reproach;

(6) he or she has a proper understanding of and attitude toward the standards that are imposed on members of the bar and will conduct himself or herself in conformity with those standards;

(7) taking into account all of the attorney’s past conduct, including the nature of the misconduct which led to the revocation or suspension, he or she nevertheless can safely be recommended to the public, the courts, and the legal profession as a person fit to be consulted by others and to represent them and otherwise act in matters of trust and confidence, and in general to aid in the administration of justice as a member of the bar and as an officer of the court;

(8) he or she is in compliance with the requirements of subrule (C), if applicable; and

(9) he or she has reimbursed the client security fund of the State Bar of Michigan or has agreed to an arrangement satisfactory to the fund to reimburse the fund for any money paid from the fund as a result of his or her conduct. Failure to fully reimburse as agreed is ground for vacating an order of reinstatement.

(C) Reinstatement After Three Years. An attorney who, as a result of disciplinary proceedings, resigns, is disbarred, or is suspended for any period of time, and who does not practice law for 3 years or more, whether as the result of the period of discipline or voluntarily, must be recertified by the Board of Law Examiners before the attorney may be reinstated to the practice of law.

(D) Petition for Reinstatement; Filing Limitations.

(1) Except as provided in subrule (D)(3), an attorney whose license to practice law has been suspended may not file a petition for reinstatement earlier than 56 days before the term of suspension ordered has fully elapsed.

(2) Except as provided in subrule (D)(3), an attorney whose license to practice law has been revoked or who has resigned may not file a petition for reinstatement until 5 years have elapsed since the attorney's resignation or disbarment.

(3) An attorney whose license to practice law has been revoked or suspended because of conviction of a felony for which a term of incarceration was imposed may not file a petition for reinstatement until the later of:

(a) the period in subrule (D)(1) or (D)(2), as applicable in light of the discipline imposed; or

(b) six months after completion of the sentence, including any period of parole or supervised release.

(4) An attorney who has been disbarred or suspended and who has been denied reinstatement may not file a new petition for reinstatement until at least 1 year from the effective date of the most recent hearing panel order granting or denying reinstatement.

(E) Abatement or Modification of Conditions of Discipline or Reinstatement. When a condition has been imposed in an order of discipline or in an order of reinstatement, the attorney may request an order of abatement discharging the lawyer from the obligation to comply with the condition, or an order modifying the condition. The attorney may so request either before or with the attorney’s affidavit of compliance under MCR 9.123(A) or petition for reinstatement under MCR 9.123(B). The request may be granted only if the attorney shows by clear and convincing evidence that a timely, good-faith effort has been made to meet the condition but it is impractical to fulfill the condition.

Rule 9.124 Procedure for Reinstatement

(A) Filing of Petition. An attorney petitioning for reinstatement shall file the original petition for reinstatement with the Supreme Court clerk and a copy with the board and the commission.

(B) Petitioner’s Responsibilities.

(1) Separately from the petition for reinstatement, the petitioner must serve only upon the administrator a personal history affidavit. The affidavit is to become part of the administrator’s investigative file and may not be disclosed to the public except under the provisions of MCR 9.126. The affidavit must contain the following information:

(a) every residence address since the date of disqualification from the practice of law;

(b) employment history since the time of disqualification, including the nature of employment, the name and address of every employer, the duration of such employment, and the name of the petitioner’s immediate supervisor at each place of employment; if requested by the grievance administrator, the petitioner must provide authorization to obtain a copy of the petitioner’s personnel file from the employer;

(d) any continuing legal education in which the petitioner participated during the period of disqualification from the practice of law;

(e) bank account statements, from the date of disqualification until the filing of the petition for reinstatement, for each and every bank account in which petitioner is named in any capacity;

(f) copies of the petitioner’s personal and business federal, state, and local tax returns from the date of disqualification until the filing of the petition for reinstatement, and if the petitioner owes outstanding income taxes, interest, and penalties, the petitioner must provide a current statement from the taxation authority of the current amount due; if requested by the grievance administrator, the petitioner must provide a waiver granting the grievance administrator authority to obtain information from the tax authority;

(g) any and all professional or occupational licenses obtained or maintained during the period of disqualification and whether any were suspended or revoked;

(h) any and all names used by petitioner since the time of disqualification;

(i) petitioner’s place and date of birth;

(j) petitioner’s social security number;

(k) whether, since the time of disqualification, petitioner was a party or a witness in any civil case, and the title, docket number, and court in which the case occurred;

(l) whether the petitioner was a party to any civil case, including the title, docket number, and court in which such case was filed; the petitioner must provide copies of the complaints and any dispositional orders or judgments, including settlement agreements, in such cases;

(m) whether the petitioner was a defendant or a witness in any criminal case, and the title, docket number, and court in which such case was filed; the petitioner must provide copies of the indictments or complaints and any dispositional orders or judgments of conviction in cases in which the petitioner was a defendant;

(n) whether the petitioner was subject to treatment or counseling for mental or emotional impairments, or for substance abuse or gambling addictions since the time of disqualification; if so, the petitioner must provide a current statement from the petitioner’s service provider setting forth an evaluative conclusion regarding the petitioner’s impairment(s), the petitioner’s treatment records, and prognosis for recovery.

(2) The petitioner must, contemporaneously with the filing of the petition for reinstatement and service on the administrator of the personal history affidavit, remit

(a) to the administrator the fee for publication of a reinstatement notice in the Michigan Bar Journal.

(b) to the board the basic administrative costs required under MCR 9.128(B)(1)

(i) an administrative cost of $750 where the discipline imposed was a suspension of less than 3 years;

(ii) an administrative cost of $1,500 where the discipline imposed was a suspension of 3 years or more or disbarment.

(3) If the petition is facially sufficient and the petitioner has provided proof of service of the personal history affidavit upon the administrator and paid the publication fee required by subrule (B)(2), the board shall assign the petition to a hearing panel. Otherwise, the board may dismiss the petition without prejudice, on its own motion or the motion of the administrator.

(4) A petitioner who files the petition before the term of suspension ordered has fully elapsed must file an updated petition and serve upon the administrator an updated personal history affidavit within 14 days after the term of suspension ordered has fully elapsed. All petitioners remain under a continuing obligation to provide updated information bearing upon the petition or the personal history affidavit.

(5) The petitioner must cooperate fully in the investigation by the administrator into the petitioner’s eligibility for reinstatement by promptly providing any information requested. If requested, the petitioner must participate in a recorded interview and answer fully and fairly under oath all questions about eligibility for reinstatement.

(1) Within 14 days after the commission receives its copy of the petition for reinstatement, the administrator shall submit to the Michigan Bar Journal for publication a notice briefly describing the nature and date of the discipline, the misconduct for which the petitioner was disciplined, and the matters required to be proved for reinstatement.

(2) The administrator shall investigate the petitioner’s eligibility for reinstatement before a hearing on it, report the findings in writing to the board and the hearing panel within 56 days of the date the board assigns the petition to the hearing panel, and serve a copy on the petitioner.

(a) For good cause, the hearing panel may allow the administrator to file the report at a later date, but in no event later than 7 days before the hearing.

(b) The report must summarize the facts of all previous misconduct and the available evidence bearing on the petitioner’s eligibility for reinstatement. The report is part of the record but does not restrict the parties in the presentation of additional relevant evidence at the hearing. Any evidence omitted from the report or received by the administrator after the filing of the report must be disclosed promptly to the hearing panel and to the opposing party.

(D) Hearing on Petition. A reinstatement hearing may not be held earlier than 28 days after the administrator files the investigative report with the hearing panel unless the hearing panel has extended the deadline for filing the report. The proceeding on a petition for reinstatement must conform as nearly as practicable to a hearing on a complaint. The petitioner shall appear personally before the hearing panel for cross-examination by the administrator and the hearing panel and answer fully and fairly under oath all questions regarding eligibility for reinstatement. The administrator and the petitioner may call witnesses or introduce evidence bearing upon the petitioner’s eligibility for reinstatement. The hearing panel must enter an order granting or denying reinstatement and make a written report signed by the chairperson, including a transcript of the testimony taken, pleadings, exhibits and briefs, and its findings of fact. A reinstatement order may grant reinstatement subject to conditions that are relevant to the established misconduct or otherwise necessary to insure the integrity of the profession, to protect the public, and to serve the interests of justice. The report and order must be filed and served under MCR 9.118(F).

(E) Review. Review is available under the rules governing review of other hearing panel orders.

Rule 9.125 Immunity

A person is absolutely immune from suit for statements and communications transmitted solely to the administrator, the commission, or the commission staff, or given in an investigation or proceeding on alleged misconduct or reinstatement. The administrator, legal counsel, investigators, members of hearing panels, masters, voluntary investigators, fee arbitrators, mentors, practice monitors, the commission, the board, and their staffs are absolutely immune from suit for conduct arising out of the performance of their duties.

A medical or psychological expert who administers testing or provides a report pursuant to MCR 9.114(C) or MCR 9.121 is absolutely immune from suit for statements and communications transmitted solely to the administrator, the commission, or the commission staff, or given in an investigation or formal disciplinary proceeding.

Rule 9.126 Open Hearings; Privileged, Confidential Files and Records

(A) Investigations. Except as provided in these rules, investigations by the administrator or the staff are privileged from disclosure, confidential, and may not be made public. At the respondent’s option, final disposition of a request for investigation not resulting in formal charges may be made public. In addition, any interested person may inspect the request for investigation and the respondent’s answer thereto if a disciplinary proceeding has been filed.

(B) Hearings. Hearings before a hearing panel and the board must be open to the public, but not their deliberations.

(C) Papers. Formal pleadings, reports, findings, recommendations, discipline, reprimands, transcripts, and orders resulting from hearings must be open to the public. A personal history affidavit filed pursuant to MCR 9.124(B)(1) is a confidential document that is not open to the public. This subrule does not apply to a request for a disclosure authorization submitted to the board or the Supreme Court pursuant to subrules (D)(7) or (E)(8).

(D) Other Records. Other files and records of the board, the commission, the administrator, legal counsel, hearing panels and their members, and the staff of each may not be examined by or disclosed to anyone except

(1) the commission,

(2) the administrator,

(3) the respondent as provided under MCR 9.115(F)(4),

(4) members of hearing panels or the board,

(5) authorized employees,

(6) the Supreme Court, or

(7) other persons who are expressly authorized by the board or the Supreme Court.

If a disclosure is made to the Supreme Court, the board, or a hearing panel, the information must also be disclosed to the respondent, except as it relates to an investigation, unless the court otherwise orders.

(E) Other Information. Notwithstanding any prohibition against disclosure set forth in this rule or elsewhere, the commission shall disclose the substance of information concerning attorney or judicial misconduct to the Judicial Tenure Commission, upon request. The commission also may make such disclosure to the Judicial Tenure Commission, absent a request, and to:

(1) the State Bar of Michigan Client Protection Fund,

(2) the State Bar of Michigan:

(a) Committee on Judicial Qualifications;

(b) Lawyers and Judges Assistance Program;

(d) Unauthorized Practice of Law Committee,

(3) any court-authorized attorney disciplinary or admissions agency, including any federal district court or federal disciplinary agency considering the licensing of attorneys in its jurisdiction,

(4) the Michigan Appellate Assigned Counsel System,

(5) any Michigan court considering the appointment of a lawyer in a pending matter as house counsel, or a standing appointment,

(6) a lawyer representing the respondent in an unrelated disciplinary investigation or proceeding;

(7) law enforcement agencies; or

(8) other persons who are expressly authorized by the board or the Supreme Court.

Rule 9.127 Enforcement

(A) Interim Suspension. The Supreme Court, the board, or a hearing panel may order the interim suspension of a respondent who fails to comply with its lawful order. The suspension shall remain in effect until the respondent complies with the order or no longer has the power to comply. If the respondent is ultimately disciplined, the respondent shall not receive credit against the disciplinary suspension or disbarment for any time of suspension under this rule. All orders of hearing panels under this rule shall be reviewable immediately under MCR 9.118. All orders of the board under this rule shall be appealable immediately under MCR 9.122. The reviewing authority may issue a stay pending review or appeal.

(B) Contempt. The administrator may enforce a discipline order or an order granting or denying reinstatement by proceeding against a respondent for contempt of court. The proceeding must conform to MCR 3.606. The petition must be filed by the administrator in the circuit court in the county in which the alleged contempt took place, or in which the respondent resides, or has or had an office. Enforcement proceedings under this rule do not bar the imposition of additional discipline upon the basis of the same noncompliance with the discipline order.

Rule 9.128 Costs

(A) Generally. The hearing panel and the board, in an order of discipline or an order granting or denying reinstatement, must include a provision directing the payment of costs within a specified period of time. Under exceptional circumstances, the board may grant a motion to reduce administrative costs assessed under this rule, but may not reduce the assessment for actual expenses. Reimbursement must be a condition in a reinstatement order.

(B) Amount and Nature of Costs Assessed. The costs assessed under these rules shall include both basic administrative costs and disciplinary expenses actually incurred by the board, the commission, a master, or a panel for the expenses of that investigation, hearing, review and appeal, if any.

(1) Basic Administrative Costs:

(a) for discipline by consent pursuant to MCR 9.115(F)(5), $750;

(b) for all other orders imposing discipline, $1,500;

(2) Actual Expenses. Within 14 days of the conclusion of a proceeding before a panel or a written request from the board, whichever is later, the grievance administrator shall file with the board an itemized statement of the commission’s expenses allocable to the hearing, including expenses incurred during the grievance administrator’s investigation. Copies shall be served upon the respondent and the panel. An itemized statement of the expenses of the board, the commission, and the panel, including the expenses of a master, shall be a part of the report in all matters of discipline and reinstatement.

(C) Certification of Nonpayment. If the respondent fails to pay the costs within the time prescribed, the board shall serve a certified notice of the nonpayment upon the respondent. Copies must be served on the administrator and the State Bar of Michigan. Commencing on the date a certified report of nonpayment is filed, interest on the unpaid fees and costs shall accrue thereafter at the rates applicable to civil judgments.

(D) Automatic Suspension for Nonpayment. The respondent will be suspended automatically, effective 7 days from the mailing of the certified notice of nonpayment, and until the respondent pays the costs assessed or the board approves a suitable plan for payment. The board shall file a notice of suspension with the clerk of the Supreme Court and the State Bar of Michigan. A copy must be served on the respondent and the administrator. A respondent who is suspended for nonpayment of costs under this rule is required to comply with the requirements imposed by MCR 9.119 on suspended attorneys.

(E) Reinstatement. A respondent who has been automatically suspended under this rule and later pays the costs or obtains approval of a payment plan, and is otherwise eligible, may seek automatic reinstatement pursuant to MCR 9.123(A) even if the suspension under this rule exceeded 179 days. However, a respondent who is suspended under this rule and, as a result, does not practice law in Michigan for 3 years or more, must be recertified by the Board of Law Examiners before the respondent may be reinstated.

Rule 9.129 Expenses; Reimbursement

The state bar must reimburse each investigator, legal counsel, hearing panel member, board member, master, and commission member for the actual and necessary expenses the board, commission, or administrator certifies as incurred as a result of these rules.

Rule 9.130 MCR 8.122 Cases; Arbitration; Discipline; Filing Complaint by Administrator

(A) Arbitration. On written agreement between an attorney and his or her client, the administrator or an attorney the administrator assigns may arbitrate a dispute and enter an award in accordance with the arbitration laws. Except as otherwise provided by this subrule, the arbitration is governed by MCR 3.602. The award and a motion for entry of an order or judgment must be filed in the court having jurisdiction under MCR 8.122. If the award recommends discipline of the attorney, it must also be treated as a request for investigation.

(B) Complaint. If the administrator finds that the filing of a complaint in the appropriate court under MCR 8.122 will be a hardship to the client and that the client may have a meritorious claim, the administrator may file the complaint on behalf of the client and prosecute it to completion without cost to the client.

Rule 9.131 Investigation of Member or Employee of Board or Commission, or Relative of Member or Employee of Board or Commission; Investigation of Attorney Representing Respondent or Witness; Other Investigations Creating the Possible Appearance of Impropriety; Representation by Member or Employee of Board or Commission

(A) Investigation of Commission Member or Employee, or Relative of Member or Employee of Commission. If the request is for investigation of an attorney who is a member or employee of the commission, or a relative of a member or employee of the commission, the following provisions apply:

(1) The administrator shall serve a copy of the request for investigation on the respondent by ordinary mail. Within 21 days after service, the respondent shall file with the administrator an answer to the request for investigation conforming to MCR 9.113. The administrator shall send a copy of the answer to the complainant.

(2) After the answer is filed or the time for answer has expired, the administrator shall send copies of the request for investigation and the answer to the Supreme Court clerk.

(3) The Supreme Court shall review the request for investigation and the answer and shall either dismiss the request for investigation or appoint volunteer legal counsel to investigate the matter.

(4) If, after conducting the investigation, appointed counsel determines that the request for investigation does not warrant the filing of a formal complaint, he or she shall file a report setting out the reasons for that conclusion with the administrator, who shall send a copy of the report to the Supreme Court clerk, the respondent, and the complainant. Review of a decision not to file a formal complaint is limited to a proceeding under MCR 9.122(A)(2). If appointed counsel determines not to file a complaint, the administrator shall close and maintain the file under MCR 9.114(E). MCR 9.126(A) governs the release of information regarding the investigation.

(5) If, after conducting the investigation, appointed counsel determines that the request for investigation warrants the filing of a formal complaint, he or she shall prepare and file a complaint with the board under MCR 9.115(B).

(6) Further proceedings are as in other cases except that the complaint will be prosecuted by appointed counsel rather than by the administrator.

If the request is for investigation of the administrator, the term “administrator” in this rule means a member of the commission or some other employee of the commission designated by the chairperson.

(B) Investigation of Board Member or Employee or Relative of Board Member or Employee. Before the filing of a formal complaint, the procedures regarding a request for investigation of a member or employee of the board or relative of a member or employee of the board, are the same as in other cases. Thereafter, the following provisions apply:

(1) The administrator shall file the formal complaint with the board and send a copy to the Supreme Court clerk.

(2) The chief justice shall appoint a hearing panel and may appoint a master to conduct the hearing. The hearing procedure is as provided in MCR 9.115, 9.117, or 9.120, as is appropriate, except that no matters shall be submitted to the board. Procedural matters ordinarily within the authority of the board shall be decided by the hearing panel, except that a motion to disqualify a member of the panel shall be decided by the chief justice.

(3) The order of the hearing panel is effective 21 days after it is filed and served as required by MCR 9.115(J), and shall be treated as a final order of the board. The administrator shall send a copy of the order to the Supreme Court clerk.

(4) MCR 9.118 does not apply. Review of the hearing panel decision is by the Supreme Court as provided by MCR 9.122.

(1) Request by a former client. A request for investigation filed by an attorney or witness against his or her counsel for alleged misconduct occurring in a disciplinary investigation or proceeding, shall be treated under the procedures set forth in MCR 9.112.

(2) Request by person other than former client. If a person other than the attorney’s former client requests an investigation for alleged misconduct committed during the course of that attorney’s representation of a respondent or a witness in proceedings before the board or the commission, the procedures in subrule (A) shall be followed. A request for investigation that alleges misconduct of this type may be filed only by the chairperson of the commission, and only if the commission passes a resolution authorizing the filing by the chairperson.

(D) Other Investigations Creating a Possible Appearance of Impropriety. If the administrator determines that an appearance of impropriety would arise if a request for investigation is handled in the manner prescribed by MCR 9.112(C), the administrator must submit the request for investigation to the Michigan Supreme Court along with a written explanation as to why the administrator believes an appearance of impropriety would arise. If the Court agrees with the administrator’s determination under this subrule, the Court will notify the administrator and direct that the procedures in subrule (A) be followed. If the Court disagrees with the administrator’s determination under this subrule, the Court will return the request for investigation to the administrator for an investigation in accordance with MCR 9.112(C).

(E) Representation by Commission or Board Member or Employee. A member or employee of the Attorney Grievance Commission or the Attorney Discipline Board and its hearing panels may not represent a respondent in proceedings before the commission, the board, or the Judicial Tenure Commission, including preliminary discussions with employees of the respective commission or board prior to the filing of a request for investigation.

Subchapter 9.200 Judicial Tenure Commission

Rule 9.200 Construction

An independent and honorable judiciary being indispensable to justice in our society, subchapter 9.200 shall be construed to preserve the integrity of the judicial system, to enhance public confidence in that system, and to protect the public, the courts, and the rights of the judges who are governed by these rules in the most expeditious manner that is practicable and fair.

Rule 9.201 Definitions

As used in this chapter, unless the context or subject matter otherwise requires

(A) “commission” means the Judicial Tenure Commission;

(B) “judge” means:

(1) a person who is serving as a judge or justice of any court of the judicial branch of state or local government by virtue of election, appointment, or assignment;

(2) a magistrate or a referee of any such court; or

(3) a person who formerly held such office if a request for investigation was filed during the person’s term of office. If the person is no longer a judge and the alleged misconduct relates to the person’s actions as a judge, it is not necessary that the request for investigation be filed during the former judge’s term of office; nothing in this paragraph deprives the Attorney Grievance Commission of its authority to proceed against a former judge.

(D) “chairperson” is the commission chairperson and includes the acting chairperson.

(E) “master” means one or more judges or former judges appointed by the Supreme Court at the commission’s request to hold hearings on a complaint against a respondent.

(F) “disciplinary counsel” is the commission’s executive director or other attorney appointed by the commission to act as the prosecutor in negotiating settlements, presenting evidence at the hearing on the complaint, and in proceedings in the Supreme Court other than litigating a recommendation on a complaint made after a hearing before the commission.

(G) “commission counsel” is the attorney appointed by the commission to provide it with counsel whenever the commission appoints the executive director as disciplinary counsel, including acting in proceedings in the Supreme Court. The disciplinary counsel may not serve as the commission counsel in the same case.

(H) “request for investigation” is an allegation of judicial misconduct, physical or mental disability, or other circumstance that the commission may undertake to investigate under Const 1963, art 6, § 30, and MCR 9.220.

(I) “complaint” is a written document issued at the direction of the commission, alleging specific charges of misconduct in office, mental or physical disability, or some other ground that warrants action under Const 1963, art 6, § 30.

Rule 9.202 Standards of Judicial Conduct

(A) Responsibility of Judge. A judge is personally responsible for the judge’s own behavior and for the proper conduct and administration of the court in which the judge presides.

(B) Grounds for Action. A judge is subject to censure, suspension with or without pay, retirement, or removal for conviction of a felony, physical or mental disability that prevents the performance of judicial duties, misconduct in office, persistent failure to perform judicial duties, habitual intemperance, or conduct that is clearly prejudicial to the administration of justice. A judge may not be ordered to pay the costs, fees, and expenses incurred by the commission in prosecuting the complaint.

(1) Misconduct in office includes, but is not limited to:

(a) persistent incompetence in the performance of judicial duties;

(b) persistent neglect in the timely performance of judicial duties;

(d) treatment of a person unfairly or discourteously because of the person’s race, gender, or other protected personal characteristic;

(e) misuse of judicial office for personal advantage or gain, or for the advantage or gain of another; and

(f) failure to cooperate with a reasonable request made by the commission in its investigation of a respondent.

(2) Conduct in violation of the Code of Judicial Conduct or the Rules of Professional Conduct may constitute a ground for action with regard to a judge, whether the conduct occurred before or after the respondent became a judge or was related to judicial office.

(3) In deciding whether action with regard to a judge is warranted, the commission shall consider all the circumstances, including but not limited to the age of the allegations and the possibility of unfair prejudice to the judge because of the staleness of the allegations or unreasonable delay in pursuing the matter and whether respondent has corrected the behavior.

Rule 9.210 Judicial Tenure Commission; Organization

(A) Appointment of Commissioners. As provided by Const 1963, art 6, § 30, the Judicial Tenure Commission consists of 9 persons. The commissioners selected by the judges shall be chosen by vote conducted by the state court administrator. The commissioners selected by the state bar members shall be chosen by vote conducted by the State Bar of Michigan. Both elections must be conducted in accordance with nomination and election procedures approved by the Supreme Court. Immediately after a commissioner’s selection, the selecting authority shall notify the Supreme Court and the Judicial Tenure Commission.

(B) Term of Office. A commissioner’s term of office shall be 3 years. To achieve staggered terms, the following terms shall expire in consecutive years:

(1) one of the appointments of the Governor, the judge of a court of limited jurisdiction, and one of the attorneys selected by the state bar;

(2) the other appointment of the Governor, the probate judge, and the other attorney selected by the state bar;

(3) the Court of Appeals judge, the circuit judge, and the judge selected by the state bar.

“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of this state, and that I will faithfully discharge the duties of the office of Judicial Tenure Commission member according to the best of my ability.”

(D) Vacancy.

(1) A vacancy in the office of a commissioner occurs:

(a) when a commissioner resigns or is incapable of serving as a member of the commission;

(b) when a judge who is a member of the commission no longer holds the office held when selected;

(d) when an appointee of the Governor becomes an attorney.

The commission shall notify the appointing authority of a vacancy.

(2) Vacancies must be filled by selection of a successor in the same manner required for the selection of the predecessor. The commissioner selected shall hold office for the unexpired term of the predecessor. Vacancies must be filled within 3 months after the vacancy occurs. If a vacancy occurs after the selection of a new commissioner but before that commissioner’s term officially begins, the commissioner-elect shall fill that vacancy and serve the remainder of the unexpired term.

(3) A member may resign by submitting a resignation in writing to the commission, which must certify the vacancy to the selecting authority.

(E) Commission Expenses.

(1) The commission’s budget must be submitted to the Supreme Court for approval.

(2) The commission’s expenses must be included in and paid from the appropriation for the Supreme Court.

(3) A commissioner may not receive compensation for services but shall be paid reasonable and necessary expenses.

(F) Quorum and Chairperson.

(1) At its first meeting in odd-numbered years, the commission shall elect from among its members a chairperson, a vice-chairperson, and a secretary, each to serve 2 years. The vice-chairperson shall act as chairperson when the chairperson is absent. If both are absent, the members present may select one among them to act as temporary chairperson.

(2) A quorum for the transaction of business by the commission is 5.

(3) The vote of a majority of the members constitutes the adoption or rejection of a motion or resolution before the commission. The chairperson is entitled to cast a vote as a commissioner.

(4) Regular meetings at which no public hearing is scheduled may be held in person, by telephone, or by teleconference, provided that the telephone or teleconference method is a secure connection.

(G) Meetings of Commission. Meetings must be held at the call of the chairperson or the executive director, or upon the written request of 3 commission members.

(H) Commission Staff.

(1) The commission shall employ an executive director or equivalent person or persons, and such other staff members as the commission concludes are warranted, to perform the duties that the commission directs, subject to the availability of funds under its budget.

(2) The executive director, other disciplinary counsel, or any other person who is involved in the investigation or prosecution of a respondent

(a) shall not be present or participate in any manner in the decision of the commission to file a complaint, or during the deliberations of the commission to recommend action by the Supreme Court with regard to that respondent, and

(b) shall have no substantive ex parte communication with the commission regarding a complaint that the commission has authorized.

(3) Commission employees are exempt from the operation of Const 1963, art 11, § 5, as are employees of courts of record.

Rule 9.211 Judicial Tenure Commission; Powers; Review

(A) Authority of Commission. The commission has all the powers provided for under Const 1963, art 6, § 30, and further powers provided by Supreme Court rule. Proceedings before the commission or a master are governed by these rules. The commission may adopt and publish internal operating procedures for its internal operation and the administration of its proceedings that do not conflict with this subchapter and shall submit them to the Supreme Court for approval.

(B) Review as an Appellate Court. The commission may not function as an appellate court to review the decision of a court or to exercise superintending or administrative control of a court, but may examine decisions incident to a request for investigation of judicial misconduct, disability, or other circumstance that the commission may undertake to investigate under Const 1963, art 6, § 30, and MCR 9.220. An erroneous decision by a judge made in good faith and with due diligence is not judicial misconduct.

(C) Control of Commission Action. Proceedings under these rules are subject to the direct and exclusive superintending control of the Supreme Court. No other court has jurisdiction to restrict, control, or review the orders of the master or the commission.

(D) Errors and Irregularities. An investigation or proceeding under this subchapter may not be held invalid by reason of a nonprejudicial irregularity or for an error not resulting in a miscarriage of justice.

(E) Jurisdiction Over Visiting Judges. Notwithstanding MCR 9.116(B), the Attorney Grievance Commission may take action immediately with regard to a visiting judge who currently holds no other judicial office if the allegations pertain to professional or personal activities unrelated to the judge’s activities as a judge.

Rule 9.212 Disqualification of Commission Member or Employee

(A) Disqualification From Participation. A judge who is a member of the commission or a justice of the Supreme Court is disqualified from participating in that capacity in proceedings involving the judge’s or justice’s own actions or for any reason set forth in MCR 2.003(C).

(B) Disqualification from Representation. A member or employee of the commission may not represent

(1) a respondent in proceedings before the commission, including preliminary discussions with employees of the commission before the filing of a request for investigation; or

(2) a judge in proceedings before the Attorney Grievance Commission, or the Attorney Discipline Board and its hearing panels, as to any matter that was pending before the Judicial Tenure Commission during the member’s or the employee’s tenure with the commission.

The law firm of an attorney member of the commission may not represent a respondent in proceedings before the commission, including preliminary discussions with employees of the commission before the filing of a request for investigation.

Rule 9.220 Preliminary Investigation

(A) Request for Investigation. A request for investigation of a judge must be made in writing and verified on oath of the grievant. The commission also is authorized to act on its own initiative or at the request of the Supreme Court, the Chief Justice, the state court administrator, or the Attorney Grievance Commission.

(B) Investigation. Upon receiving a request for investigation that is not clearly unfounded or frivolous, the commission shall direct that an investigation be conducted to determine whether a complaint should be filed and a hearing held.

(C) Adjourned Investigation. If a request for investigation is filed less than 90 days before an election in which the respondent is a candidate, and the request is not dismissed forthwith as clearly unfounded or frivolous, the commission shall postpone itsinvestigation until after the election unless two-thirds of the commission members present or participating by telephone or teleconference determine that the public interest and the interests of justice require otherwise.

(D) Physical or Mental Examination. In the course of an investigation where a respondent’s physical or mental condition is at issue, the commission may require the respondent to submit to a physical or mental examination. Failure of the respondent to submit to the examination may constitute judicial misconduct. MCR 2.311(C) is applicable to the examination.

(E) Expediting Matters. When the integrity of the judicial system requires, the Supreme Court may direct that the commission expedite its consideration of any investigation, and may set a deadline for the commission to submit any recommendation to the Court, notwithstanding any other provision in this subchapter.

Rule 9.221 Evidence

(A) Taking of Evidence During Investigation. The commission may take evidence before it or an individual member of the commission, or before the executive director or other member of the staff for purposes of the investigation.

(B) The commission may request that a respondent comment on any aspect of an investigation. The respondent shall have 21 days from the date of the request for comments to provide a response. The executive director may extend the response time for an additional 21 days. Any further request for additional time may only be granted by the commission or its chairperson for good cause shown. The respondent must sign the response, and that signature shall serve as the respondent’s attestation as to the veracity of the respondent’s response.

(C) Issuance of Subpoenas. The commission may issue subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses to provide statements or produce documents or other tangible evidence exclusively for consideration by the commission and its staff during the investigation. Before the filing of a complaint, the entitlement appearing on the subpoena shall not disclose the name of a respondent under investigation. Notwithstanding any other provision of this rule, a subpoena issued under this rule may require a party or witness to appear by telephone or by videoconferencing technology. Telephonic proceedings are subject to the provisions of MCR 2.402, and videoconference proceedings are subject to the provisions of MCR 2.407.

(D) Sanctions for Contempt; Disobedience by Respondent.

(1) Contempt proceedings against a nonparty for failure to obey a subpoena issued pursuant to this rule may be brought pursuant to MCR 2.506(E) in the circuit court for the county in which the individual resides, where the individual is found, where the contempt occurred, or where the hearing is to be held.

(2) If a respondent disobeys a subpoena or other lawful order of the commission or the master, whether before or during the hearing, the commission or the master may order such sanctions as are just, including, but not limited to, those set forth in MCR 2.313(B)(2)(a)-(e).

(E) Cooperation With Investigation. A judge, clerk, court employee, member of the bar, or other officer of a court must comply with a reasonable request made by the commission in its investigation. Failure to cooperate may be considered judicial misconduct or attorney misconduct. No court may charge the Judicial Tenure Commission for copying costs or certification costs, whether under MCL 600.2546 or otherwise, unless the Michigan Supreme Court specifically so authorizes.

Rule 9.222 Further Investigation; the “28-day letter”

(A) Before filing a complaint, the commission must give written notice to the respondent who is the subject of a request for investigation. The purpose of the notice is to afford the respondent an opportunity to apprise the commission, in writing within 28 days, of such matters as the respondent may choose, including information about the factual aspects of the allegations and other relevant issues. The notice shall specify the allegations and may include the date of the conduct, the location where the conduct occurred, and the name of the case or identification of the court proceeding relating to the conduct. The respondent shall sign the response and that signature shall serve as the respondent’s attestation as to the veracity of the respondent’s response.

(1) For good cause shown, the commission or its chairperson may grant a reasonable extension of the 28-day period.

(2) The Supreme Court may shorten the time periods prescribed in this and other provisions of this subchapter at its own initiative or at the request of the commission.

(B) In the commission’s discretion, it may issue a “28-day letter” without having first requested the respondent’s comments pursuant to MCR 9.221(B).

(C) The commission may continue to investigate until it issues a complaint, at which point the disciplinary counsel may continue investigating as needed.

(D) If a respondent requests in response to a written notice from the commission under this rule, the commission may offer the respondent an opportunity to appear informally before the commission to present such information as the respondent may choose, including information about the factual aspects of the allegations and other relevant issues.

Rule 9.223 Conclusion of Investigation; Notice

(A) If the commission determines at any time in the investigation that there are insufficient grounds to warrant filing a complaint, the commission may:

(1) dismiss the matter;

(2) dismiss the matter with a letter of explanation or caution that addresses the respondent’s conduct;

(3) dismiss the matter with or without a letter of explanation or caution that addresses the respondent’s conduct contingent upon the satisfaction of conditions imposed by the commission, which may include a period of monitoring;

(4) admonish the respondent; or

(5) recommend to the Supreme Court private censure, with a statement of reasons.

(B) Notice to Respondent. Before taking action under subrule (A)(2)-(5), the commission must first have given written notice to the respondent of the nature of the allegations in the request for investigation and afforded the respondent a reasonable opportunity to respond in writing, pursuant to MCR 9.221(B), MCR 9.222(A), or both.

(C) On final disposition of a request for investigation without the filing of a complaint, the commission shall give written notice of the disposition to the respondent who was the subject of the request. The commission also shall provide written notice to the grievant that the matter has been resolved without the filing of a complaint.

Rule 9.224 Complaint

(A) Upon determining that there is sufficient evidence to believe that the respondent under investigation has engaged in misconduct, the commission may issue a complaint against that respondent.

(B) If the commission issues a complaint, it shall appoint the executive director or another attorney to act as disciplinary counsel. If the executive director assumes the role of disciplinary counsel, the commission shall appoint outside counsel to act as commission counsel. If the commission appoints outside counsel to act as disciplinary counsel, the executive director shall serve as commission counsel.

Rule 9.225 Interim Suspension

(A) Petition.

(1) With the filing of a complaint, the commission may petition the Supreme Court for an order suspending a respondent from acting as a judge until final adjudication of the complaint.

(2) In extraordinary circumstances, the commission may petition the Supreme Court for an order suspending a respondent from acting as a judge in response to a request for investigation, pending a decision by the commission regarding the filing of a complaint. In such a circumstance, the documents filed with the Court must be kept under seal unless the petition is granted. Conviction of a felony is grounds for automatic interim suspension, with or without pay, pending action by the commission. If the respondent is suspended without pay, the respondent’s pay shall be held in escrow pending the final resolution of disciplinary proceedings.

Whenever a petition for interim suspension is granted, the processing of the case shall be expedited in the commission and in the Supreme Court. The commission shall set forth in the petition an approximate date for submitting a final recommendation to the Court.

(3) Notwithstanding any other provision of this rule, in a matter in which a respondent poses a substantial threat of serious harm to the public or to the administration of justice, the commission may petition the Supreme Court for an order suspending a respondent from acting as a judge without pay in response to a request for investigation, pending a decision by the commission regarding the issuance of a complaint. The respondent’s pay shall be held in escrow pending the final resolution of disciplinary proceedings.

(B) Contents; Affidavit or Transcript. The petition must be accompanied by a sworn affidavit or court transcript and state facts in support of the allegations and the assertion that immediate suspension is necessary for the proper administration of justice.

(C) Service; Answer. A copy of the petition and supporting documents must be served on the respondent, who may file an answer to the petition within 14 days after service of the petition, unless the commission has filed a motion for immediate consideration. The commission must be served with a copy of the answer.

Rule 9.230 Pleadings

Other than motions, the complaint and answer are the only pleadings allowed.

(A) Complaint.

(1) Filing; Service. A complaint may not be issued before the completion of a preliminary investigation. Upon concluding that there is sufficient evidence to warrant the issuance of a complaint, the commission shall direct the executive director or equivalent staff member to do the following:

(a) enter the complaint in the commission docket, which is a public record;

(b) retain the complaint in the commission office; and

(2) Form of Complaint. A complaint must be entitled:

“Complaint Against _____, Judge. No. _____.”

A complaint must be in form similar to a complaint filed in a civil action in the circuit court.

(B) Answer.

(1) Filing. Within 14 days after service of the complaint, the respondent must file with the commission the original and 9 copies of an answer verified by the respondent.

(2) Form. The answer must be in form similar to an answer in a civil action in the circuit court and must contain a full and fair disclosure of all facts and circumstances pertaining to the allegations regarding the respondent. Willful concealment, misrepresentation, or failure to file an answer and disclosure are additional grounds for disciplinary action under the complaint.

(3) Affirmative defenses, including the defense of laches, must be asserted in the answer or they will not be considered.

Rule 9.231 Appointment of Master

(A) The Supreme Court shall appoint a master to conduct the hearing within a reasonable period of the date of the petition and shall establish a date for completion of the hearing procedure.

(B) The master shall set a time and a place for the hearing and shall notify the respondent and the examiner at least 28 days in advance. The master shall rule on all motions and other procedural matters incident to the complaint, answer, and hearing. Recommendations on dispositive motions shall not be announced until the conclusion of the hearing, except that the master may refer to the commission on an interlocutory basis a recommendation regarding a dispositive motion.

(C) The master may conduct one or more pretrial conferences, and may order a prehearing conference to obtain admissions or otherwise narrow the issues presented by the pleadings.

(D) Unless the parties agree to waive them, closing arguments at the hearing before the master shall be oral and take place upon conclusion of the presentation of evidence. The master may not adjourn or postpone closing arguments for the preparation of a transcript or the submission of proposed findings of fact.

(E) MCR 2.003(B) shall govern all matters concerning the disqualification of a master.

Rule 9.232 Discovery

(A) Pretrial or discovery proceedings are not permitted, except as follows:

(1) At least 21 days before a scheduled public hearing,

(a) the parties shall provide to one another, in writing, the names and addresses of all persons whom they intend to call at the hearing, a copy of all statements and affidavits given by those persons, and any material in their possession that they intend to introduce as evidence at the hearing, and

(b) the disciplinary counsel or executive director shall provide to the respondent copies of all exculpatory material in its possession.

(2) The parties shall give supplemental notice to one another within 5 days after any additional witness or material has been identified and at least 10 days before a scheduled hearing.

(B) A deposition may be taken of a witness who is living outside the state or who is unable to attend a hearing, or otherwise as allowed for good cause shown.

(C) If a party fails to comply with subrules (A) or (B), the master may, on motion and showing of material prejudice as a result of the failure, impose one or more of the sanctions set forth in MCR 2.313(B)(2)(a)-(e).

Rule 9.233 Public Hearing

(A) Procedure. The public hearing must conform as nearly as possible to the rules of procedure and evidence governing the trial of civil actions in the circuit court. A respondent is entitled to be represented by an attorney. Disciplinary counsel shall present the evidence in support of the charges set forth in the complaint and at all times shall have the burden of proving the allegations by a preponderance of the evidence. Any employee, officer, or agent of the respondent’s court, law enforcement officer, public officer or employee, or attorney who testifies as a witness in the hearing, whether called by the disciplinary counsel or by the respondent, is subject to cross-examination by either party as an opposite party under MCL 600.2161.

(B) Effect of Failure to Comply.

(1) If the respondent is in default for not having filed a timely answer or fails to attend the proceedings without being excused by the master, the commission, or the court, the allegations set forth in the complaint shall be deemed admitted, taken as true, and may form the basis for the master to make findings of fact.

(2) The respondent’s failure to testify in his or her own behalf or to submit to a medical examination requested by the commission or the master may be considered as an evidentiary fact, unless the failure was due to circumstances unrelated to the facts in issue at the hearing.

(C) Record. The proceedings at the hearing must be recorded by stenographic or mechanical means. If the master declines to admit evidence, a separate record shall be made so that the commission and/or the court may consider that evidence and determine whether to include it in the record.

Rule 9.234 Subpoenas

(A) Issuance of Subpoenas. The attorneys may issue subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses or the production of documents or other tangible evidence.

(B) Sanctions for Contempt; Disobedience by Respondent.

(1) Contempt proceedings against a nonparty for failure to obey a subpoena issued pursuant to this rule may be brought pursuant to MCR 2.506(E) in the circuit court for the county in which the individual resides, in which the individual is found, in which the contempt occurred, or in which the hearing is to be held.

Rule 9.235 Amendments of Complaint or Answer

The master, before the conclusion of the hearing, or the commission, before its determination, may allow or require amendments of the complaint or the answer. The complaint may be amended to conform to the proofs or to set forth additional facts, whether occurring before or after the commencement of the hearing. If an amendment is made, the respondent must be given reasonable time to answer the amendment and to prepare and present a defense against the matters charged in the amendment. A “28-day letter” is not required to amend a complaint.

Rule 9.236 Report of Master

The court reporter shall prepare a transcript of the proceedings conducted before the master within 21 days of the conclusion of the hearing, filing the original with the commission, and serving copies on the respondent (or the respondent’s attorney) and disciplinary counsel, by e-mail. Within 21 days after a transcript of the proceedings is provided, the master shall prepare and transmit to the commission a report that contains a brief statement of the proceedings and findings of fact and conclusions of law with respect to the issues presented by the complaint and the answer. On receiving the report, the commission must promptly send a copy to the respondent, unless the master has already done so.

Rule 9.240 Objections to Report of Master

Within 28 days after the master’s report is mailed to the respondent, disciplinary counsel or the respondent may file with the commission an original and 9 copies of a brief in support of or in opposition to all or part of the master’s report. The briefs must include a discussion of possible sanctions and, except as otherwise permitted by the commission, are limited to 50 pages in length. A copy of the brief must be served on the opposite party, who shall have 14 days to respond.

Rule 9.241 Appearance Before Commission

When the hearing before the master has concluded, the commission shall set a date for hearing objections to the report. Both the respondent and the disciplinary counsel may present oral argument at the hearing before the commission.

Rule 9.242 Extension of Time

For good cause shown, the commission or its chairperson may extend for periods not to exceed 28 days the time for the filing of an answer, for the commencement of a hearing before the commission, for the filing of the master’s report, and for the filing of a statement of objections to the report of a master.

Rule 9.243 Hearing Additional Evidence

The commission may order a hearing before itself or the master for the taking of additional evidence at any time while the complaint is pending before it. The order must set the time and place of hearing and indicate the matters about which evidence is to be taken. A copy of the order must be sent to the respondent at least 14 days before the hearing.

Rule 9.244 Commission Decision

(A) Majority Decision.

(1) The affirmative vote of 5 commission members who have considered the report of the master and any objections, and who were present at an oral hearing provided for in MCR 9.241, or have read the transcript of that hearing, is required for a recommendation of action with regard to a respondent. A commissioner may file a written dissent.

(2) It is not necessary that a majority agree on the specific conduct that warrants a recommendation of action with regard to a respondent, or on the specific action that is warranted, only that there was some conduct that warrants such a recommendation.

(B) Record of Decision.

(1) The commission must make written findings of fact and conclusions of law along with its recommendations for action with respect to the issues of fact and law in the proceedings, but may adopt the findings of the master, in whole or in part, by reference. The commission’s report must include a list of all respondent’s prior disciplinary actions under MCR 9.223(A)(2)-(5) or MCR 9.224 and must include an acknowledgment that the commission has included its consideration of any prior discipline in the commission’s recommended action. The list of previous disciplinary actions shall be submitted under seal and will be retained in a nonpublic manner. Disclosure of any prior disciplinary action will occur only if the information is relevant to any recommendation or imposed sanction.

(2) The commission shall undertake to ensure that the action it is recommending in individual cases is reasonably proportionate to the conduct of the respondent and reasonably equivalent to the action that has been taken previously in equivalent cases.

Rule 9.245 Consent Agreements

(A) Consent Agreements. At any time, the respondent and the disciplinary counsel (or the executive director acting as the putative disciplinary counsel) may enter into confidential negotiations. A consent agreement may

(1) include stipulated facts and an agreement as to the sanction; or

(2) include just the stipulated facts, with no agreement as to the sanction.

The parties may present a signed consent agreement to the commission, which shall review the matter and decide whether to accept it. If the consent agreement is filed under subsection (1), the parties do not file briefs and the matter is not set on the docket for argument following the commission’s decision, unless otherwise directed by the Court. If the consent agreement is filed under subsection (2), the matter proceeds pursuant to MCR 9.250 and MCR 9.251.

(B) Commission Action. If the commission agrees to the terms set forth in the consent agreement in subsection (1), the commission shall issue a decision and recommendation as if there had been a master’s report filed. If the commission agrees to the terms set forth in the consent agreement in subsection (2), the stipulated facts serve in lieu of a master’s report and the matter then proceeds to a hearing before the commission, with the briefing schedule and an appearance before the commission, as set forth in MCR 9.240 and MCR 9.241. The time for filing a brief before the commission in matters filed under subsection (2) shall start with the filing of the consent agreement. A copy of the consent agreement shall be attached to the commission’s decision. The commission’s recommendation must include its rationale for accepting the consent agreement as well as a list of all respondent’s prior disciplinary actions under MCR 9.223(A)(2)-(5) or MCR 9.224 and must include an acknowledgment that the commission has included its consideration of any prior discipline in the commission’s recommended action. The list of previous disciplinary actions shall be submitted under seal and will be retained in a nonpublic manner. Disclosure of any prior disciplinary action will occur only if the information is relevant to any recommendation or imposed sanction.

(C) Prior or pending discipline actions. As part of a proposed consent agreement, the parties shall submit a list of all pending or previous disciplinary action taken against the respondent, sufficient information to understand the context of the individual circumstances, and the disposition of each incident. For purposes of this rule, “disciplinary actions” include any disposition other than a dismissal under MCR 9.223(A)(1), including nonsanctions under MCR 9.223(A)(2)-(5). The parties also shall include information about actions initiated against the respondent in proceedings other than disciplinary actions, including court cases for superintending control, criminal proceedings, internal discipline actions, or any other allegations of judicial misconduct. The list of previous disciplinary actions shall be submitted under seal and will be retained in a nonpublic manner. Disclosure of any prior disciplinary action will occur only if the information is relevant to any recommendation or imposed sanction.

(D) Action With Respondent’s Consent. With the consent of the respondent and the commission, the Supreme Court may impose a sanction or take other action at any stage of the proceedings under these rules.

(E) Confidentiality. A consent agreement submitted to the commission shall not be made public until after the commission has accepted its terms and the Court has approved it.

Rule 9.250 Filing and Service of Documents after Commission’s Decision

(A) Within 21 days after issuing its decision and recommendation, the commission must file in the Supreme Court:

(1) the original record arranged in chronological order and indexed and certified;

(2) one copy of the order; and

(3) a proof of service on the respondent.

(B) The commission must serve the respondent with:

(1) notice of the filing under MCR 9.250(A)(1);

(2) 2 copies of the order;

(3) 2 copies of the index to the original record; and

(4) a copy of a portion of the original record not submitted by or previously furnished to the respondent.

If the commission files electronically, then the applicable court rules governing electronic filing apply.

Rule 9.251 Review by Supreme Court

(A) Petition by Respondent. Within 28 days after being served, a respondent may file in the Supreme Court one copy of

(1) a petition to reject or modify the commission’s recommendation, which must:

(a) be based on the record,

(b) specify the grounds relied on,

(d) include a brief in support; and

(2) an appendix presenting portions of the record that the respondent believes necessary to fairly judge the issues.

The respondent must serve the commission with one copy of the petition and one copy of the appendix and file proof of that service. If the respondent files electronically, then the applicable rules governing electronic filing apply.

(B) Role of Commission Counsel and Disciplinary Counsel. If a respondent submits a petition under subsection (A), commission counsel shall appear on behalf of the commission, submit the brief of the commission under subrule (C), and shall advocate only for the position recommended by the commission. Filing of documents with the commission shall be deemed service on commission counsel. Disciplinary counsel’s involvement in the case is ended, unless the matter is remanded for further proceedings before the commission or master.

(1) one copy of a reply brief, and

(2) proof that the respondent was served with one copy of the brief.

The commission may file one copy of an appendix containing portions of the record not included in the respondent’s appendix that the commission believes necessary to fairly judge the issues. If the disciplinary counsel files electronically, then the applicable rules governing electronic filing apply.

(D) Review in Absence of Petition by Respondent. If the respondent does not file a petition, the Supreme Court will review the commission’s recommendation on the record file. The Supreme Court may order that briefs be filed or arguments be presented.

(E) Form of Briefs. A brief filed under this subrule is to be similar to a brief filed in an appeal to the Supreme Court.

(F) Additional Evidence. The Supreme Court may, if cause is shown, order that further evidence be taken and added to the original record.

(G) Submission. The clerk will place the case on a session calendar under MCR 7.313. Oral argument may be requested.

Rule 9.252 Decision by Supreme Court

(A) The Supreme Court shall review the record of the proceedings and file a written opinion and judgment, which may accept or reject the recommendations of the commission or modify the recommendations by imposing a greater, lesser, or entirely different sanction. When appropriate, the Court may remand the matter to the commission for further proceedings, findings, or explication.

(B) If the commission issues a decision based on a consent agreement between the respondent and the disciplinary counsel under subrule 9.245(A)(1) and the Court determines to impose a greater, lesser, or entirely different sanction, the respondent shall be afforded the opportunity to withdraw the consent and the matter shall be remanded to the commission for further proceedings.

Rule 9.253 Motion for Rehearing

Unless the Supreme Court directs otherwise, the respondent may file a motion for rehearing within 14 days after the filing of the decision. If the Supreme Court directs in the decision that a motion for rehearing may not be filed, the decision is final on filing.

Rule 9.260 Service

(A) Respondent. When provision is made under these rules for serving a complaint or other document on a respondent, the service must be made in person or by registered or certified mail or through an overnight delivery service to the respondent’s judicial office or last known residence. If an attorney has appeared for a respondent, service may be on the attorney in lieu of service on the respondent.

(B) Commission. Service on the commission must be made by personal delivery or by registered or certified mail or through an overnight delivery service to the executive director at the commission’s office.

(C) Disciplinary Counsel. Service on the disciplinary counsel must be made by personal delivery or by registered or certified mail or through an overnight delivery service to the disciplinary counsel at that individual’s address on record with the state bar.

(D) Alternative Service. The respondent, the respondent’s attorney, the executive director, disciplinary counsel, and/or commission counsel may serve one another via e-mail with a paper copy being sent via regular mail to the individual’s address on record with the state bar.

Rule 9.261 Confidentiality; Disclosure

(A) Scope of Rule. Except as provided in this rule, all papers filed with the commission and all proceedings before it are confidential in nature and are absolutely privileged from disclosure by the commission or its staff, including former members and employees, in any other matter, including but not limited to civil, criminal, legislative, or administrative proceedings. All the commission’s investigative files and commission-generated documents are likewise confidential and privileged from disclosure. Nothing in this rule prohibits the respondent from making statements regarding the respondent’s conduct.

(B) Before Filing a Complaint.

(1) Before a complaint is filed, neither a commissioner nor a member of the commission staff may disclose the existence or contents of an investigation, testimony taken, or papers filed in it, except as needed for investigative purposes.

(2) The commission may at any time make public statements as to matters pending before it on its determination by a majority vote that it is in the public interest to do so, limited to statements

(a) that there is an investigation pending,

(b) that the investigation is complete and there is insufficient evidence for the commission to file a complaint, or

(c) with the consent of the respondent, that the investigation is complete and some specified disciplinary action has been taken.

(C) Discretionary Waiver of Confidentiality or Privilege. The commission may waive the confidentiality or privilege protections if:

(1) the respondent waives, in writing, the right to confidentiality or privilege;

(2) the grievant waives, in writing, the right to confidentiality or privilege;

(3) the witness whose statement, testimony, or other evidentiary item will be disclosed waives, in writing, the right to confidentiality or privilege; and

(4) a majority of the commission determines that the public interest will be served by doing so.

(D) After Filing of Complaint

(1) When the commission issues a complaint, the following shall not be confidential or privileged:

(a) the complaint and all subsequent pleadings filed with the commission or master, all stipulations entered, all findings of fact made by the master or commission, and all reports of the master or commission; however, all papers filed with and proceedings before the commission during the period preceding the issuance of a complaint remain confidential and privileged except where offered into evidence in a formal hearing; and

(b) the formal hearing before the master or commission, and the public hearing provided for in MCR 9.241.

(2) This subrule neither limits nor expands a respondent’s right to discovery under MCR 9.232.

(3) The confidentiality or privilege of any otherwise nonpublic disciplinary action is waived in any proceeding on a concurrent or subsequent complaint.

(E) Disclosure to Grievant. Upon completion of an investigation or proceeding on a complaint, the commission shall disclose to the grievant that the commission

(1) has found no basis for action against the respondent or determined not to proceed further in the matter,

(2) has taken an appropriate corrective action, the nature of which shall not be disclosed, or

(3) has recommended that the respondent be publicly censured, suspended, removed, or retired from office.

(F) Public Safety Exception. When the commission receives information concerning a threat to the safety of any person or persons, information concerning such person may be provided to the person threatened, to persons or organizations responsible for the safety of the person threatened, and to law enforcement or any appropriate prosecutorial agency.

(G) Disclosure to State Court Administrator.

(1) The commission may refer to the state court administrator requests for investigation and other communications received by the commission concerning the conduct of a judge if, in the opinion of the commission, the communications are properly within the scope of the duties of the administrator. The commission may provide the administrator with files, records, investigations, and reports of the commission relating to the matter. Such a referral does not preclude action by the commission if the judge’s conduct is of such a nature as to constitute grounds for action by the commission or cannot be adequately resolved or corrected by action of the administrator.

(2) The commission may disclose to the administrator, upon request, the substance of files and records of the commission concerning a former judge who has been or may be assigned judicial duties by the administrator; a copy of the information disclosed must be furnished to the judge.

(H) Disclosure to Attorney Grievance Commission. Notwithstanding the prohibition against disclosure in this rule, the commission shall disclose information concerning a judge’s misconduct in office, mental or physical disability, or some other ground that warrants commission action under Const 1963, art 6, § 30, to the Attorney Grievance Commission upon request. Absent a request, the commission may make such disclosure to the Attorney Grievance Commission. In the event of a dispute concerning the release of information, either the Attorney Grievance Commission or the Judicial Tenure Commission may petition the Supreme Court for an order resolving the dispute.

(I) Disclosure to Chief Judge. Notwithstanding the prohibition against disclosure in this rule, and except for those situations that involve a dismissal with explanation, the commission shall notify the chief judge of a court when the commission has taken action under MCR 9.223(A)(2)-(5) involving a magistrate or referee of that court. Upon the chief judge’s request, the referee or magistrate shall provide the chief judge with a copy of the commission’s written notice of disposition.

(J) Notwithstanding the prohibition against disclosure in this rule, upon request the commission may disclose some or all of the information in its possession concerning a judge’s misconduct in office, mental or physical disability, or some other ground that warrants commission action under Const 1963, art 6, § 30, to the State Bar Judicial Qualifications Committee, or to any other officially authorized state or federal judicial qualifications committee that meets or exceeds the confidentiality requirements established by the State Bar of Michigan in Rule 19, sec. 2 of the Rules Concerning the State Bar.

(K) Notwithstanding the prohibition against disclosure in this rule, either upon request or on its own motion, the commission may disclose some or all of the information concerning a judge’s misconduct in office, mental or physical disability, or some other ground that warrants commission action under Const 1963, art 6, § 30, to the State Bar Lawyers & Judges Assistance Program.

Rule 9.262 Record Retention

The commission shall develop a record-retention policy, which shall include a description of the materials that are to be stored, a list of the time for which specific materials must be maintained, and procedures for the disposal of records.

Rule 9.263 Immunity

A person is absolutely immune from civil suit for statements and communications transmitted solely to the commission, its employees, or its agents, or given in an investigation or proceeding on allegations regarding a respondent, and no civil action predicated upon the statements or communications may be instituted against a grievant, a witness, or his or her counsel. Members of the commission and their employees and agents, masters, disciplinary counsel, and commission counsel are absolutely immune from civil suit for all conduct in the course of their official duties.

Rule 9.264 Ethics Materials and Programs

The commission shall work with other groups and organizations, including the State Bar of Michigan, to develop educational materials and programs that are designed to assist judges in maintaining an awareness and understanding of their ethical obligations.

Subchapter 9.300 Interim Administrators

Rule 9.301 Definitions

(A) “Affected Attorney” means an attorney who is either temporarily or permanently unable to practice law because the attorney has:

(1) resigned;

(2) been disbarred or suspended;

(3) disappeared;

(4) been imprisoned;

(5) abandoned the practice of law;

(6) become temporarily or permanently disabled or incapacitated;

(7) been transferred to disability inactive status pursuant to MCR 9.121; or

(8) died.

(B) “Affected Attorney’s Clients” are clients to whom the Affected Attorney is the attorney of record, regardless of whether the retainer agreement is with the Affected Attorney or the Affected Attorney’s Law Firm.

(C) “Appointed Interim Administrator” means an Interim Administrator who is appointed by the circuit court pursuant to MCR 9.305 to serve on behalf of the Affected Attorney.

(D) “Designated Interim Administrator” means an Interim Administrator that a Private Practice Attorney has designated to serve and who has accepted the designation in the event the Private Practice Attorney should become an Affected Attorney.

(E) “Interim Administrator” means a general term for an active Michigan attorney in good standing who serves on behalf of a Private Practice Attorney who becomes an Affected Attorney. It also means a law firm with at least one other active Michigan attorney that is designated to serve on behalf of a Private Practice Attorney who becomes an Affected Attorney.

(F) “Law Firm” means the entity in which the Affected Attorney carries out the profession of being a lawyer.

(G) “Private Practice Attorney” means an attorney who is an active Michigan attorney in good standing and who is subject to Rule 21 of the Rules Concerning the State Bar of Michigan, Mandatory Interim Administrator Planning.

Rule 9.303 Affected Attorney with a Firm

The firm of an attorney who becomes an Affected Attorney may continue to represent each of the Affected Attorney’s Clients without a circuit court appointment as Interim Administrator, provided:

(A) the firm is the Affected Attorney’s Designated Interim Administrator;

(B) the firm has at least one active Michigan attorney in good standing capable of competently representing the Affected Attorney’s Clients; and

(C) each Affected Client gives express written consent to the representation. Copies of the signed consents must be maintained with the client file.

Rule 9.305 Appointment of Interim Administrator

(A) Commencement of Proceeding for Appointment of Interim Administrator; Service of Process. A proceeding for the appointment of an Interim Administrator is commenced by the filing of an ex parte petition by the Interim Administrator in the circuit court for the county in which the Affected Attorney lives, last lived, or maintains or last maintained an office for the practice of law. If an Interim Administrator is unable to serve, he or she must promptly notify the State Bar, and the State Bar must promptly identify a replacement Interim Administrator using the list maintained by the State Bar under Rule 21(C) of the Rules Concerning the State Bar of Michigan or its own staff under attorney supervision as a measure of last resort.

(1) The petition must set forth facts proving that

(a) the attorney is an Affected Attorney as defined in MCR 9.301(A).

(b) the appointment of an Interim Administrator is necessary to protect the interests of the Affected Attorney’s Clients or the interests of the Affected Attorney.

(2) The petition must be verified or accompanied by an affidavit or declaration under penalty of perjury of a person having personal knowledge of the facts.

(3) The petition and any supporting documents must be served upon the Affected Attorney if the whereabouts of the Affected Attorney are known, the Affected Attorney’s estate if the Affected Attorney has died, and on the fiduciary for the Affected Attorney, if one has been appointed. See MCR 2.103 – 2.108. If the petition is filed by the Designated Interim Administrator, it must also be served upon the State Bar of Michigan by email at an address designated by the State Bar of Michigan pursuant to MCR 2.107(C)(4) or by electronic service pursuant to MCR 1.109(G)(6).

(B) Order of Appointment. If the circuit court determines that the petitioner has proven by a preponderance of the evidence that the attorney is an Affected Attorney as defined in MCR 9.301(A) and the appointment of an Interim Administrator is necessary to protect the interests of the Affected Attorney’s Clients or the interests of the Affected Attorney, the circuit court shall appoint one or more Interim Administrators, as follows:

(1) The circuit court must appoint the Designated Interim Administrator or the Interim Administrator proposed by the State Bar under subrule (A), unless good cause exists to appoint a different Interim Administrator.

(2) If good cause exists, the circuit court may appoint additional Interim Administrators.

(3) The order appointing an Interim Administrator shall specifically authorize the Interim Administrator to:

(a) take custody of and act as signatory on any bank or investment accounts, safe deposit boxes, and other depositories maintained by the Affected Attorney in connection with the Law Firm, including all lawyer trust accounts, escrow accounts, payroll accounts, operating accounts, and special accounts;

(b) disburse funds to clients of the Affected Attorney or others entitled thereto; and

(4) The order appointing an Interim Administrator takes effect immediately upon entry unless the circuit court orders otherwise.

(5) The circuit court may order the Interim Administrator to submit interim and final accountings and reports, as it deems appropriate. The circuit court may allow or direct portions of any accounting relating to the funds and confidential information of the clients of the Affected Attorney to be filed under seal.

(C) Service of Notice of Interim Administrator’s Appointment. Upon receipt of an order of appointment of an Interim Administrator, the petitioner must serve the Notice of Appointment of an Interim Administrator’s appointment, including the name and address of the Affected Attorney, and the name, business address, business telephone number, business email address, and P number of the Interim Administrator on the Affected Attorney, the Affected Attorney’s estate if the Affected Attorney has died, and the Affected Attorney’s fiduciary. If the petitioner is the Designated Interim Administrator, service must also be made on the State Bar of Michigan. If the petitioner is the State Bar of Michigan, service must also be made on the Interim Administrator. The State Bar of Michigan must publish the notice in the Michigan Bar Journal and on the State Bar of Michigan website.

(D) Objection to Appointment. Within 14 days after service of the Notice of Appointment, any interested person may file objections to the order of appointment of an Interim Administrator specifying the grounds upon which the objection is based. Although the filing of one or more objections does not automatically stay the order appointing Interim Administrator, the court may order that the appointment be stayed pending resolution of the objection(s).

Rule 9.307 Duties and Powers of the Interim Administrator

(A) The Interim Administrator is not required to expend his or her own resources when exercising the duties and powers identified in this rule. If the Interim Administrator does expend his or her own resources, the Interim Administrator may request reimbursement under MCR 9.313.

(B) The general duties of the Interim Administrator are to:

(1) take custody of the files and records.

(2) take control of accounts, including lawyer trust accounts and operating accounts.

(3) review the files and other papers to identify any pending matters.

(4) promptly notify all clients represented by the Affected Attorney in pending matters of the appointment of the Interim Administrator. Notification shall be made in writing, where practicable.

(5) promptly notify all courts and counsel involved in any pending matters, to the extent they can be reasonably identified, of the appointment of an Interim Administrator for the Affected Attorney. Notification shall be made in writing, where practicable.

(6) deliver the files, funds, and other property belonging to the Affected Attorney’s Clients pursuant to the clients’ directions, subject to the right to retain copies of such files or assert a retaining or charging lien against such files, money, or other property to the extent permitted by law.

(7) take steps to protect the interests of the clients, the public, and, to the extent possible and not inconsistent with the protection of the Affected Attorney’s Clients, to protect the interests of the Affected Attorney.

(8) comply with the terms of the agreement between the Affected Attorney and the Interim Administrator.

(1) The Interim Administrator shall file with the court an inventory of the Affected Attorney’s interest-bearing trust accounts for deposit of client and third-party funds within 35 days after entry of the order of appointment, unless an inventory has already been filed with the court.

(2) The Interim Administrator shall account for all receipts, disbursements, and distributions of money and property for the Affected Attorney, including its interest-bearing trust accounts for deposit of client and third-party funds.

(3) The Interim Administrator shall file with the court a final written report and final accounting of the administration of the Affected Attorney and serve a copy of each on the State Bar of Michigan.

(4) The State Bar of Michigan may petition the court for an interim accounting if it has reason to believe the Affected Attorney’s affairs are being mismanaged.

(D) If the Interim Administrator determines that there is a conflict of interest between the Interim Administrator and an Affected Attorney’s Client, the Interim Administrator must notify the client, the State Bar of Michigan, and the circuit court that made the appointment and take all appropriate action under the Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct.

(E) To the extent possible, the Interim Administrator may assist and cooperate with the Affected Attorney and/or the Affected Attorney’s fiduciary in the continuance, transition, sale, or winding up of the Law Firm.

(F) The Interim Administrator may purchase the Law Firm only upon the circuit court’s approval of the sale.

Rule 9.309 Protection of Client Information and Privilege

The appointment of the Interim Administrator does not automatically create an attorney and client relationship between the Interim Administrator and any of the Affected Attorney’s Clients. However, the attorney-client privilege applies to all communications by or to the Interim Administrator and the Affected Attorney’s Clients to the same extent as it would have applied to any communications by or to the Affected Attorney with those same clients. The Interim Administrator is governed by Michigan Rule of Professional Conduct 1.6 with respect to all information contained in the files of the Affected Attorney’s Clients and any information relating to the matters in which the clients were being represented by the Affected Attorney.

Rule 9.311 Protection of Client Files and Property

The circuit court has jurisdiction over all of the files, records, and property of clients of the Affected Attorney and may make any appropriate orders to protect the interests of the clients of the Affected Attorney and, to the extent possible and not inconsistent with the protection of clients, the interests of the Affected Attorney, including, but not limited to, orders relating to the delivery, storage, or destruction of the client files of the Affected Attorney. The Interim Administrator may maintain client documents in paper or electronic format. The Interim Administrator may destroy any client document pursuant to the law office file retention policy or as necessary to meet ethical obligations, whichever is shorter, without returning to the court for permission to do so.

Rule 9.313 Compensation and Reimbursable Expenses of Interim Administrator

(A) Compensation and Reimbursement Available. The Interim Administrator, except as otherwise provided by an agreement with the Affected Attorney, is entitled to reasonable compensation for the performance of the Interim Administrator’s duties and reimbursement for actual and reasonable costs incurred in connection with the performance of the Interim Administrator’s duties. Reimbursable expenses include, but are not limited to, the costs incurred in connection with maintaining the staff, offices, and operation of the Law Firm and the employment of attorneys, accountants, and others retained by the Interim Administrator in connection with carrying out the Interim Administrator’s duties.

(B) Request for Compensation or Reimbursement.

(1) The Interim Administrator may file a motion with the court that ordered the appointment seeking compensation or reimbursement under this rule. Unless the Interim Administrator and the Affected Attorney or the Affected Attorney’s estate have reached an agreement otherwise, the Interim Administrator will be paid from the Law Firm if funds are available; if funds are not available from the practice, the attorney may file a claim against the estate in a probate court. The claim must include an accounting of all receipts, disbursements, and distributions of money and property of the Law Firm.

(2) An Interim Administrator who was matched to an Affected Attorney through the list maintained by the State Bar of Michigan and who was subsequently appointed by the circuit court may seek payment or reimbursement from the State Bar of Michigan for expenses identified in subrule (A). The State Bar of Michigan will promulgate a process for reimbursement under this subrule.

(C) Award of Compensation or Reimbursement. The circuit court may enter a judgment awarding compensation and expenses to the Interim Administrator against the Law Firm, Affected Attorney, or any other available sources as the court may direct. The judgment will be a lien upon all property of any applicable Law Firm or Affected Attorney retroactive to the date of filing of the petition for the appointment of an Interim Administrator under this Rule. The judgment lien is subordinate to possessory liens and to non-possessory liens and security interests created prior to it taking effect and may be foreclosed upon in the manner prescribed by law.

Rule 9.315 Liability

Every Interim Administrator, as that term is defined in MCR 9.301(E), shall obtain and retain professional liability insurance that covers conduct performed as an Interim Administrator under these rules and the Rules Concerning the State Bar of Michigan.

Rule 9.317 Employment of the Interim Administrator as Attorney for an Affected Client

An Interim Administrator shall not, without the informed written consent of the Affected Client represent such client in a pending matter in which the client was represented by the Affected Attorney, other than to temporarily protect the interests of the client, or unless and until the Interim Administrator has concluded the purchase of the Law Firm. Any informed written consent by the Affected Client must include an acknowledgment that the client is not obligated to retain the Interim Administrator.