In re Scola

Bar counsel appeals from a judgment of a single justice of this court publicly reprimanding the respondent, James F. Scola. At issue is the proper sanction. As we shall explain, we believe that Scola’s conduct warrants a term suspension, which shall be stayed subject to certain conditions.

Background. The facts, as found by the hearing committee and recited by the single justice, are well supported by the record and are not in dispute. Scola was admitted to the practice of law in 1985. Starting in about 2000, Scola concentrated his practice in handling real estate closings on behalf of…