In re Disciplinary Proceeding against Abele

¶1 — Following a four-day disciplinary hearing, hearing officer William S. Bailey found that attorney Kathryn B. Abele committed two counts of misconduct. He recommended that Abele be suspended for one year, that she complete an evaluation to determine her fitness to practice law, and that she pay all litigation costs. The Washington State Bar Association (WSBA) Disciplinary Board (Board) unanimously adopted the recommendations.

¶2 Abele appealed, arguing that 11 of the 48 findings of fact were not supported by substantial evidence and that suspension is not the appropriate sanction. We hold…