Disciplinary Actions – 1/29/14

The Indiana Supreme Court Disciplinary Commission brings charges against attorneys who have violated the state’s rules for admission to the bar and Rules of Professional Conduct. The Indiana Commission on Judicial Qualifications brings charges against judges, judicial officers, or judicial candidates for misconduct. Details of attorneys’ and judges’ actions for which they are being disciplined by the Supreme Court will be included unless they are not a matter of public record under the court’s rules.

Reinstatement
Earl C. Mullins Jr. has been conditionally reinstated to the practice of law in Indiana, per a Jan. 16 order. He was suspended Sept. 6, 2013, based on his suspension in Kentucky. Mullins’ probationary reinstatement here is subject to compliance with the terms of his probation in Kentucky. When he is released from probation there, he may file a petition to terminate probation in Indiana.

Patrick V. Baker, of Marion County, has been reinstated to the practice of law in Indiana, per a Jan. 16 order. Baker was suspended in October 2011. Baker shall pay any costs owed under Admis. Disc. R. 23(18)(d).

Resignation
Michael K. Bonnell, of Owen County, has resigned from the bar, effective Jan. 16. His affidavit of resignation requires an acknowledgement that there is presently pending an investigation into or a proceeding involving allegations of misconduct and that Bonnell could not successfully defend himself if prosecuted. Any pending disciplinary matters are dismissed as moot. He must wait five years before petitioning for reinstatement. The costs of the proceedings are assessed against Bonnell.

Franklin A. Safrin, of Hamilton County, has resigned from the bar, effective Jan. 16. His affidavit of resignation requires an acknowledgement that there is presently pending an investigation into or a proceeding involving allegations of misconduct and that Safrin could not successfully defend himself if prosecuted. Any pending disciplinary matters are dismissed as moot. He must wait five years before petitioning for reinstatement. The costs of the proceedings are assessed against Safrin.•