In re Polsley

Summary

The Kansas Supreme Court considered an attorney-discipline proceeding against Kathryn S. Polsley based on her conviction for theft of government property after Social Security benefits continued to be deposited into a trust following her mother's death. The court adopted the disciplinary panel's findings that she violated KRPC 8.4(b), but imposed a two-year suspension rather than the panel's recommended one-year suspension. The court also ordered compliance with applicable suspension procedures and assessed costs against Polsley.

Holdings

1. Polsley violated KRPC 8.4(b) because her conviction for theft of government property constituted a criminal act that adversely reflected on her honesty and trustworthiness.
2. A two-year suspension from the practice of law was appropriate discipline for Polsley's knowing theft of government property and violation of KRPC 8.4(b).

Questions Presented

1. Whether Polsley violated KRPC 8.4(b) by committing a criminal act involving theft of government property that adversely reflected on her honesty, trustworthiness, or fitness to practice law.
2. What discipline was appropriate for the violation.

Disposition

other