Notice of Discipline

• Publication year: 2020

Notice of Discipline

On June 29, 2020, the Hawaii Supreme Court imposed upon Attorney Suzanne T. Terada (Bar No. 2797), an 18-month suspension from the practice of law in Hawaii.¹

in a consolidated disciplinary case involving three separate matters, a majority of the Hawaii Supreme Court found that Terada violated multiple rules of professional conduct. Terada was found to have violated the rules of professional conduct that require an attorney to act with competence; diligence and promptness; to consult with, and keep the client informed; to notify the client on receipt of funds, to keep client's funds separate from the lawyer's funds, to promptly deliver funds to the client, to protect a client's interest upon termination, and to not engage in conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation. Additionally, the court found that Terada "acted with willful intent in two of the client matters, and caused, or threatened to cause, financial and other injuries to all three clients." After balancing factors in aggravation and mitigation, the court found sufficient circumstances to "mitigate against a more severe discipline," and concluded that an 18-month period of suspension was warranted. A minority of the court filed a separate dissenting opinion indicating a lesser 6-month suspension was indicated.²

Upon entry of the June 29, 2020 suspension order, Terada shall not accept any new retainer or engage as attorney for another in any new case or legal matter of any nature. However, between June 29, 2020 and July 29, 2019, Terada may wind up and complete, on behalf of any client, all matters that...