Issues:
Drug test, negligence, attorney practices.
Case Summary:
Attorney Marc J. Terner appeals a disciplinary ruling by a state board that reviews attorney conduct. An audit performed by the Office of Attorney Ethics discovered improprieties in Terner's record keeping. The audit stemmed from a number of complaints filed by Terner's clients.
Decision of lower jurisdiction:
Following hearings into Terner's conduct, the review board recommended three private reprimands, three public reprimands, and a forty-eight-month suspension from his law practice. Terner was ordered to submit to weekly drug tests during his suspension. He also was to undergo drug tests for an additional two years after reinstatement. Terner now appeals.
Outcome:
Terner loses. The Supreme Court of New Jersey affirmed the decision of the review board. The court ruled that Terner committed the alleged violations and structured guidelines for his reinstatement.