Narrative Opinion Summary
The Supreme Court of the State of Hawai#i has approved the resignation of attorney Melodie R. Williams Aduja from the practice of law, pursuant to a petition by the Disciplinary Board. This resignation is accepted in lieu of disciplinary action, contingent upon her acknowledgment of misconduct and compliance with the requirements set forth under Rule 2.14(a) of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Hawai#i. The court's order mandates that the resignation takes effect 30 days from the date of the order, during which Aduja must submit her original license certificate or provide an affidavit if unable to do so. Compliance with Rule 2.16, governing disbarred attorneys, is required, including the notification of relevant parties by the Disciplinary Board. Furthermore, Aduja is held accountable for the costs of the proceedings, contingent on the submission of a verified bill of costs by the Office of Disciplinary Counsel. This decision reflects the court's adherence to procedural standards while allowing for the resolution of disciplinary matters outside of formal proceedings.
Legal Issues Addressed
Compliance with Disbarment Rulessubscribe to see similar legal issues
Application: The attorney must comply with rules applicable to disbarred attorneys, including submission of license and notification obligations.
Reasoning: Aduja is required to comply with RSCH Rule 2.16, which pertains to disbarred attorneys.
Cost of Disciplinary Proceedingssubscribe to see similar legal issues
Application: The attorney is responsible for the costs associated with the disciplinary proceedings if a verified bill of costs is submitted.
Reasoning: Aduja will also be responsible for the costs of the proceedings, upon the timely submission of a verified bill of costs by the Office of Disciplinary Counsel (ODC).
Requirements for Attorney Resignationsubscribe to see similar legal issues
Application: The attorney's resignation is contingent upon acknowledgment of misconduct and adherence to specific procedural requirements.
Reasoning: The Disciplinary Board submitted a petition in support of Aduja’s resignation, which meets the criteria outlined in Rule 2.14(a) of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Hawai#i (RSCH).
Resignation in Lieu of Disciplinesubscribe to see similar legal issues
Application: The court allows an attorney to resign from the practice of law instead of facing disciplinary action, provided certain criteria are met.
Reasoning: An order from the Supreme Court of the State of Hawai#i has been issued regarding attorney Melodie R. Williams Aduja, allowing her to resign from the practice of law in lieu of discipline.