WPCGu +xiWKב*T*:{{wK615}r8:W0yY6C4|Nb /-Dv=X9:SXsgy**@ _Md ^Pq_[T Ő?VM e-6,8+XN oj{hLGk, Q`[3ty͆J`߽1"*o_t ^ѵYz - 7`[Qqbޡo}-_KJ+~^묙 xc%u}mAW3)J&uLb!a b_[ZHggr0iE]_1D{|G)J2FG T4.ǡ0y>1N=f;=G04h,v> U8~Ͷf ـ;dC%.8TZL4 PS;Bw` 4={#U|N{ % 0: ^ w 4 - < m> ~U 0~ 0DQb, "v( 0<)2*51U$: 4 0F4/:5 0i8 0Z9H: 03? 0@ 0A 0B 0C 0cD 0BE 0F 0G 0G 0H 0I 0jJ 0=K 0 L 0L 0M 0N 0cO 0>P 0Q 0Q 0R 0S 0XT 00!U 0<QU 0U 0>KV 0vV 0`V 0`_W 0`W 0`X 0`X 08X 0Y 02Y 0Z 0:[ 0YQ[ 0_[ 0  \ 0j] 0}^ B*` D/+` D+Z` 0` D/ b 08b 06c 0NeU*e Be 0NeE!f#fN;fU@=fb}fUHfffffff 1j 72yk 0ckk 0wl 0l`m 0oo 0p 0p 0q 0er 0DTsTs 1ut 72 u u u u?uHP LaserJet 5/5M PostScript0(9 Z6Times New Roman RegularX($USUS.,v{s0 Xf/:i+003|xU t  ($USUS.,    6    _XXInthatletter,consistingofapproximately5singlespacedpages,therespondent  painstakinglypresentshissideoftheincident.Therespondentsbottomlineisthathe  didnothingwrongand,indeed,hewasthemodelofdecorumandwashimselfvictimized.  Accordingtotherespondent,thecomplaintwasriddledwith somanyblatantliesthatit  wasdifficulttoknowwheretostarttoanswerit.(.(3($ !USUS.,      0  (#$  0     ($USUS.,    2    _XXMarylandRuleofProfessionalconduct4.4provides:  8  Inrepresentingaclient,alawyershallnotusemeansthathaveno  substantialpurposeotherthantoembarrass,delay,orburdenathirdperson,  orusemethodsofobtainingevidencethatthelawyerknowsviolatethe  legalrightsofsuchperson.- - "  ($USUS.,    8    _XXOnseveraloccasions,_Martocci_Ԁcalledtheopposingpartya nutcaseand crazy  and,ononeoccasion,made demeaningWfacialgesturesandstuckouthistongueather  andherlawyer._Martocci_,791So.2dat1075.Withrespecttoopposingcounsel,  _Martocci_Ԁwasfoundtohavecalledhera stupididiotandtohavetoldherthatshe  should gobacktoPuertoRico.Id.Inaddition,thecourtdeterminedthatherepeatedly  toldherthatshedidnotknowthelawortherulesofprocedureandneededtoreturnto   lawschool.#W?#WԀId.#W#  ($USUS.,    9    _XXTheopinioncataloguestheoffensivequestionsGoldenaskedthedeponent.A  fewexampleswillsufficetogivecontexttothecourtscomments:  8  W(1)[Attorney]:Andwhowasyourlawyerinyourfirstdivorce?     ?+  @ HPX "X? [Smith]:Me.   [Attorney]:Wasthatbecauseyouarecheaporyouthinkyouare   smartenoughtobeyourownlawyer?Isthatwhatyouthink?  Ѐ [Smith]:Whatkindofaquestionisthat?  Ѐ [Attorney]:_ Itsa_ Ԁgoodquestion.#WP#W    8 x 8x`"x`" (2)[Attorney]:Idon'tneedcriticismfromyou.Youain'tnearlyas  goodasIamaboutansweringquestionsoraskingthem.Justanswer  myquestions,mister.      ****     Ӏ#W#W8 x 8x`"x`" (4)[Attorney]:Youarecomingacrossasanabsolutelyridiculous   person.Butthat'sokay,youwilllearnthehardway.    8 x 8x`"x`" (5)[Attorney]:Youarenotsmartenoughtoquestionmyquestions.   Youarenotsmartenoughtoevenanswermyquestions.Butdothebest   youcan.#Wa#W      ****     8 x 8x`"x`" (10)[Attorney]:Well,Iamnotgoingtoarguewithyou.Youarenot   smartenoughtoarguewith.     ****    Ӏ8 x 8x`"x`" (#WN#W16)AttorneyreferredtoSmith,whohadbeenapatientatCharter  Hospital,asan"inmate"ofthehospital.#W #   ($USUS.,    10    _XXTheCourtrejectedtherespondentsargumentthat,becausehisspeechwas  protected,hecouldnotbesanctionedasaresultofit,relyingonWԀ_Cantwell_Ԁv.  Connecticut,310U.S.296,30910,60S.Ct.900,906,84L.Ed.1213,1221(1940)  ( Resorttoepithetsorpersonalabuseisnotinanypropersensecommunicationof  informationoropinionsafeguardedbytheConstitution,anditspunishmentasacriminal  actwouldraisenoquestionunderthatinstrument.)and_Chaplinsky_Ԁv.NewHampshire,   315U.S.568,571572,62S.Ct.766,769,86L.Ed.1031(1942).#W*#   ($USUS.,    7    _XXThecourtsummarizedtherefereesfindingsasthiscount,asfollows:  8  W [_ D]uring_ ԀarecesstoahearingintheBergerproceedings,whenMr._ Paton_   enteredthecourtroom,_ Martocci_ Ԁsaidherecomesthefatherofthenut   case.Mr._ Paton_ Ԁrespondedbyapproachingrespondentandsaying,Ifyou  havesomethingtosaytome,sayittomyface,notinfrontofeveryonehere  inthecourtroom.Thereafter,inopencourtandforalltosee,_ Martocci_   closelyapproachedMr._ Paton_ Ԁandthreatenedtobeathim.UponMs.  _ Figueroa_ 'sattempttointervene,_ Martocci_ ԀtoldhertogobacktoPuerto  Rico.Thisconfrontationonlyendedwhenabailiffenteredthecourtroom.    #W#WFloridaBarv._ Martocci_ ,791So.2d1074,1075(2001).#W@# l  ($USUS.,    11    _XXThepleadingcontainingtherespondentsexceptionsiscaptioned,inadvertently,  wearesure, ExceptionsofPetitionertoRecommendationsoftheCircuitCourtfor  BaltimoreCounty.<:Default Para   ($USUS.,    12    _XXTherespondentboaststhatheisprone tocriticizinggovernmentagencies,and  otherinstitutionsandindividuals,whenIfeelthattheyarebreakingthelaw.  Elucidating,hesays:  8  Idothisinmyownpersonallife,andIdoitaspartofmylawpractice.  WhenItookmyoathasanattorney,Iwasundertheimpressionthatitwas  mydutytoupholdthelawandtoresistillegalityonthepartofthe   government,nottoshillforaparticularadministration,politicalparty,   minoritygroup,orpoliticallyusefulgroup,suchasgovernmentemployees.   IamaffordedprotectionformyactivitiesbytheFirstAmendmenttothe   UnitedStatesConstitution.Oneofthemostsacrosanctaspectsofthatlaw,    andoneofthebattlefieldsonwhichsomanyconflictshaveragedagainst  petty,tyrannicalcourtsystemsthathavetriedunsuccessfullytoinvalidate  theconcept,ismyrighttocriticizemygovernment.WhattheCourtis  goingtodointhiscasedoesnotmerelyhaveachillingeffectonthose  rightsitisablizzard.Iteffectivelycompletesthedownwardspiralbegun  intheAlisoncaseandeffectivelydeprives30,000Marylandattorneysof   anythingremotelyresemblinghumandignity.TheCommissionseeksto   giveRule8.4daninterpretationthatissobroad,sointentionallyill   defined,sovague,andsoallencompassingthatitwillmakealloftheother   rulessuperfluous.... +  ($USUS.,    1    _XXMarylandRule16751provides:   giklnopqrs(Xx3u8  (a)Commencementofdisciplinaryorremedialaction.-Uponapprovalof  theCommission,BarCounselshallfileaPetitionforDisciplinaryor  RemedialActionintheCourtofAppeals.7\  `"TimesNewRoman2J+M 0_level1  X 2( ` hp x 223  ..  5+ ` hp x 5   %  ($USUS.,    4    _XXRule16-752(a)provides:  8  (a)Order.-UponthefilingofaPetitionforDisciplinaryorRemedial  Action,theCourtofAppealsmayenteranorderdesignatingajudgeofany  circuitcourttoheartheactionandtheclerkresponsibleformaintainingthe  record.Theorderofdesignationshallrequirethejudge,afterconsultation  withBarCounselandtheattorney,toenteraschedulingorderdefiningthe   extentofdiscoveryandsettingdatesforthecompletionofdiscovery,filing    ofmotions,andhearing.2G+M 0_level2   /%` ` hp x /23  ..  5+ ` hp x 5  2D+M 0_level3   ," hp x ,23  ..  5+ ` hp x 5     ($USUS.,    5    __XXMarylandRule_1____6_757_(c)provides:________  __8  __ (c)Findingsandconclusions.-Thejudgeshallprepareandfileordictate  intotherecordastatementofthejudge'sfindingsoffact,includingfindings  astoanyevidenceregardingremedialaction,andconclusionsoflaw.If  dictatedintotherecord,thestatementshallbepromptlytranscribed.Unless  thetimeisextendedbytheCourtofAppeals,thewrittenortranscribed   statementshallbefiledwiththeclerkresponsiblefortherecordnolater   than45daysaftertheconclusionofthehearing.Theclerkshallmailacopy   ofthestatementtoeachparty._*(FR3  f M   BBL?X%2A`Arial?  XXXSW\  `&Times New RomanS   2( 4 <DL2  2A+M 0_level4  ` ) hp x )23  ..  5+ ` hp x 5  2>+M 0_level5   &hhp x &23  ..  5+ ` hp x 5  2;+M 0_level6   #p x #23  ..  5+ ` hp x 5  28+M 0_level7  h  p x 23  ..  5+ ` hp x 5  25+M 0_level8   pp x 23  ..  5+ ` hp x 5  22+M 0_level9    x 23  ..  5+ ` hp x 5  2JM 0_levsl1  X 2( ` hp x 223  Ԁ  5+ ` hp x 5  2GM 0_levsl2   /%` ` hp x /23  Ԁ  5+ ` hp x 5  2DM 0_levsl3   ," hp x ,23  Ԁ  5+ ` hp x 5  2AM 0_levsl4  ` ) hp x )23  Ԁ  5+ ` hp x 5  2>M 0_levsl5   &hhp x &23  Ԁ  5+ ` hp x 5  2;M 0_levsl6   #p x #23  Ԁ  5+ ` hp x 5  28M 0_levsl7  h  p x 23  Ԁ  5+ ` hp x 5  25M 0_levsl8   pp x 23  Ԁ  5+ ` hp x 5  22M 0_levsl9    x 23  Ԁ  5+ ` hp x 5  2JM 0_levnl1  X 2( ` hp x 223   5+ ` hp x 5  2GM 0_levnl2   /%` ` hp x /23   5+ ` hp x 5  2DM 0_levnl3   ," hp x ,23   5+ ` hp x 5  2AM 0_levnl4  ` ) hp x )23   5+ ` hp x 5  2>M 0_levnl5   &hhp x &23   5+ ` hp x 5  2;M 0_levnl6   #p x #23   5+ ` hp x 5  28M 0_levnl7  h  p x 23   5+ ` hp x 5  25M 0_levnl8   pp x 23   5+ ` hp x 5  22M 0_levnl9    x 23   5+ ` hp x 5  0.Normal<:Definition T<AA:Definition L , 5+ ` hp x 5  5+ ` hp x 586Definition(''&H1   XXX   (&H2 XXX (&H3 XXX (&H4 XXX XXX(&H5 XXX (&H6 XXX 20Address8MM6Blockquote , , 5+ ` hp x 5   5+ ` hp x 5,*CITE,dl*CODEKV<6X9`(Courier NewKXXXSW\  `&Times New RomanS42Emphasis64Hyperlink    <:FollowedHype    4go2Keyboard KV<6X9`(Courier NewKXXXSW\  `&Times New RomanS <:Preformatted/%  ,Kk %#/KV<6X9`(Courier NewKXXXSW\  `&Times New RomanS/%  ,Kk %#/<:zBottom of 7L(X7  ?X%2A`Arial?  XXXSW\  `&Times New RomanS7M(X7&  d dK)1dxd'dxd<:zTop of For7O(X7  ?X%2A`Arial?  XXXSW\  `&Times New RomanS7M(X7K)2dxd0KS.SampleKV<6X9`(Courier NewKSW\  `&Times New RomanS0.Strong 8dl6TypewriterKV<6X9`(Courier NewKXXXSW\  `&Times New RomanS42Variable: 8HTML MarkupB      2 0CommentB  <6X9`(Courier New\  `&Times New Roman%2A`Arial d(O$ (A Z(Times New Roman - -;\  `0TimesNewRoman,Italic      ($USUS.,    13    _XXInresponsetotheReportoftheTaskForceonProfessionalism,chairedbythe  HonorableLynne_Battaglia_,thisCourtauthorized,onDecember16,2003,theformation  ofaProfessionalismCommission.Itspurposeis todevelopaconsensusaboutthe  definitionofprofessionalismandtoexaminewaystopromoteprofessionalismamong  Marylandslawyersandtoprovidesustainedattentionandassistancetothetaskof  ensuringthatthepracticeoflawremainsahighcalling,enlistedintheserviceofclient   andpublicgood.Itisnotintendedto,andwillnot,beavehicleforthemicro   managementofallaspectsofthelegalprofession,includingpurelyprivateactivitiesand   conduct.iklnopqrhXCEIMQUY]aAutoList1        i)1)a)gs (;3$2#  0  .3  0  (O;$0  2#  a  .3  0` (#(#(b$0  0` (#(#2#   .3  0 ` (#` (# V  ($USUS.,    3    _XXԀ_MRPC_Ԁ8.4(d)provides:  8  Itisprofessionalmisconductforalawyerto:     ****    8  8`    (d)engageinconductthatisprejudicialtothe  administrationofjustice;` x` x   ****     (xir$0  0` (#(#0 ` (#` (#2#(  0  )3  0 (# (#($0  0` (#(#0 ` (#` (#0 (# (#2#(  a  )3  0h(#(#(F$0  0` (#(#0 ` (#` (#0 (# (#0h(#(#2#(   )3  0h(#h(#($0  0` (#(#0 ` (#` (#0 (# (#0h(#(#0h(#h(#2#  0  )3  0(#(#({$0  0` (#(#0 ` (#` (#0 (# (#0h(#(#0h(#h(#0(#(#2#  a  )3  0p(#(#(F$0  0` (#(#0 ` (#` (#0 (# (#0h(#(#0h(#h(#0(#(#0p(#(#2#     )3  0p(#p(# 3#37=CIQYag1.a.i.(1)(a)(i)1)a)ui)  !USUS.,  _  aPINTHECOURTOFAPPEALS  OFMARYLAND  Misc.DocketAGNo.97 t SeptemberTerm,2002 L  AY[) xdE <A  ` ATTORNEYGRIEVANCECOMMISSION  G  OFMARYLAND 3  v.   HAROLDS.LINK,JR.   AY[) xdEV<A W    D   Bell,C.J. R  D 0  Raker>(#(#  D   Wilner *z  D   Cathell f  D   Harrell R  D   Battaglia > Ѐ0  Eldridge,JohnC.*(#(#  D   (retired,speciallyassigned),  Ѐ   L   JJ.  AY[) xdE<A    OpinionbyBell,C.J.  ! Wilnerand_Battaglia_,JJ.,concur q!" RakerandEldridge,JJ.,concurinjudgmentonly ]"# AY[) xdE4$A 5$%    D    D   Filed:March19,2004 &l!(    |-(0 e84Xdd8  \+  XXTheAttorneyGrievanceCommissionofMaryland,thepetitioner,actingpursuant  toMarylandRule16-751,  #  1      ׀approvedthefilingbyBarCounselofaPetitionForDisciplinary  orRemedialActionchargingtherespondent,HaroldS.Link,Jr.,withviolatingRule4.4,  RespectforRightsofThirdPersons,  #  2      ׀oftheMarylandRulesofProfessionalConduct   ( _MRPC_),asadoptedbyMarylandrule16812and,insodoing,actinginamanner   prejudicialtotheadministrationofjustice,inviolationof_MRPC_Ԁ8.4(d)._mX   #  3      _#X4Xh#ԀXX4Wereferredthe   casetotheHonorableRobertE.Cadigan,oftheCircuitCourtforBaltimoreCounty,for   hearing,Rule16752(a),   #  4      ׀andtofindfactsanddrawconclusionsoflaw.See16757(c).  #  5      ׀ L \+ \ \    Followingthehearing,atwhichthecomplainant,_Wilbert_ԀMyles,thecomplainants  supervisorandtherespondent,bothforhimselfandinthepetitionerscase,alltestified,the  hearingcourtconcludedthattherespondentviolatedtherulescharged.Thoseconclusions  werebasedonthefindingsoffactmadeby#X4Xf #ԀXX4thecourt,aftersummarizingthetestimony,as   follows:    1.TheIncidentofMay10,2002     TheRespondentstestimony(hereinafter Link)isbestsummarizedbyhisletter   directedtoMr.GrossmandatedJuly4,2002introducedasPlaintiffsExhibit1(E).... X   #  6          Inaddition,Link<( 4 <DLX<WtestifiedatthehearingthathehasbeenamemberoftheMaryland  #WX4XWG#WXWX4Barsince1990.Heengagesinageneralpracticeworkingoutofhishomein#W#W_Cockeysville_.#W#WԀ  His#WX4XW>#ԀWXWX4practiceemphasizespersonalinjury#W<#Wl#W#Witigation.Heemploysnoassociates,_paralegals_Ԁor  _secretaries.Approximately90%ofhispersonalinjuryclientsareAfricanAmerican.Link  isCaucasian#We#W.#W#W  #W#W { Inhistestimony#W4#W.#W#WԀLinkalludedtoproblemshepreviouslyencounteredatthe#W#WMVA#W^#W  in#W#WTowson#W#WԀwhenaclerkinformedhimhewasnotentitledtocertaininformationbecauseof   thePrivacyAct.FollowingcallstooneofthehigherupsatMVA,Linkconcludedthat   thewholeMVAsystemisimbuedwithviolationsoftheMarylandPublicInformationAct.   Hereferredtoanotherpriorincidentwithagovernmentemployee#WE#Wfollowing#W$#WԀwhichhe   #Wo#askedtoseetheemployeessupervisor.Heindicatesthathisconversationwiththe  supervisorwasnotfriendly.   & WhenLinkwenttotheMVAofficeinMondawminonMay10,2002hewashoping  theywouldgivehimtheinsurancecoverageinformationheneededbuthewonderedifthe  MVAwaspersistinginitspolicyofnondisclosurebecauseofthePrivacyAct.He  purposelydressedcausallybecausehewantedtoseehowordinarypeoplearetreated.He  isappalledbythewayheandothersaretreatedpoorly.Linkadmittedthathehashad  difficultywithotheragencies.Hisstandardisnottobackdownbutrathergointothe   mouthofthebeast.LinkstatedinclosingargumentthattheMVAisacriminal " organizationandisactingillegally.Hearguedthatitsallaboutthelittleguy...takingon $  thegovernment...whistleblowing. &""  AsstatedinLink'sJuly4,2002letter(Plaintiff'sExhibit1(E),hetestifiedthatthe ($$ MVACustomerServiceAgent,WilbertMyles(hereinafterMyles)wasrudeandcurt. *&& AfterbeingaskedbyMylesifhewasanattorneyandtoproduceidentification.Linkadmits  thathetoldMylesandhissupervisor,Ms.Ryce,(hereinafterRyce)thatMyleswas  incompetent,didn'tknowthelawandneedstobetrainedproperly.Headmitsthathecalled  Mylesaloathsomebureaucrat.Inhistestimony,hestatedMylesisrude,arrogant,   incompetentandlazy....Hedoesntknowthelaw...heactedlikeacompletefool...hewas   shouting...likeacompleteidiot.Linkcontendsthathisrighttotellanemployeehowhe   isdoinghisjobisprotectedbytheFirstAmendment.G#    X& !E.% } -5= "4XE WhenMylesrefusedtogiveLinkhisname,headmitsthathesaidOK,Sparky,Ive  hadenoughofyournonsenseletmetalktoyoursupervisor.LinktestifiedthatSparky  isameaninglessterm...forsomeonewhosenameyoudontknow...it'safiller.Iwould  usuallysay partner.Iambeingcondescending...theterm sirisaformofrespectand  Ihadabsolutelynone.LinkdeniedanyknowledgethatSparkyhasanyracialconnotation  orisinanywayraciallyoffensive.   Finally,LinktestifiedthathecalmlyansweredMr.Mylessillyquestionsand  neverraisedhisvoiceduringtheMay2002encounterbutratherwasverballyabusedby   Myles.Linkcontendsthathisconductwasimpeccable. "  WilbertMylestestifiedthatheis61yearsoldandhasbeenaCustomerService $  AgentwithMVAfornineyears.HepreviouslyworkedasaSeniorAssistantUnderwriter &"" withUSF&Gfor15years.Hehashad"fourmajorsurgeries"andtakesninepillsaday ($$ includingaheartpill.MylesisanAfricanAmerican. *&&  GXE.. 6>F "XE OnMay10,2002LinkapproachedMylesworkstationandgavehimanapplication  foradriver'srecordinwhichhehadcheckedoffregistrationrecords.AccordingtoMVA  policy,MylesrequestedLink'sdriver'slicenseasidentification.WhenaskedwhybyLink,  Mylesrespondedthatwithoutidentification,hecouldnotgiveLinktherequestedinformation   becauseofthePrivacyAct.Mylesexplainedthatattorneyscangetacompletedrivers   recordincludingnameandaddress.MylestheninquiredastowhetherLinkwasan   attorney.Linkrespondedwhatdifferencedoesitmake?Mylesofferedanexplanation   whichwasinaccordwithhistrainingmanual.LinkthenstatedthatMyleswasbreaking  thelawinnotprovidingtheinformation.   MylesdescribedLinksdemeanorasverysmugandpretentious.BaseduponMr.  Mylesworkexperience,hesuspectedthatLinkwasanattorneybecausetheyhavecertain  airs.   MylestestifiedthatwhenLinkcontinuedthenamecalling...themaligningandthe  indignitiesthathehurledatme,Mylesstatedyouneedtoseethesupervisor.Linkstated  youneedtobringsomeoneouthere...becauseobviouslyyoudontknowwhatyouare   doing. "  Beforethesupervisor(Ryce)wassummonsed,MylestestifiedthatLinkcalledhim $  Sparkyseveralmoretimes.Mylestookoffenseandprotestedthatthatwasnothisname &"" andthatLinkscommentwasdemeaning,sarcastic,disrespectfulandinsulting.Hestated ($$ thathewashumiliated,upset,infuriatedandembarrassed.Mylesfurthertestifiedthat *&& SparkyisjustanothernamefortheNwordformostpeopleofcoloratmyageorolder.  AsMyleslefthisworkstationtospeakwithhissupervisor,hestatesthatLinkthrewhis  driver'slicenseonthecounter.   XGE.. 6>F "XE WhenMyleswenttohissupervisor'soffice,shewasonthetelephonewith   customers.3ԀSheplacedthecustomeronholdaminuteandMylestoldherwhathad   happened.Whenthesupervisorappeared,MylestestifiedthatLinkstatedwhattook   yousolong?Atthepoint,hestatedLinkwasirateandtoldthesupervisorthatSparky   overheredoesntknowhisjobandthatheshouldberetrainedbecausehedoesn'tknowthe  lawandisincompetent.MylesstatesthatLinktoldhissupervisorthat...thesystemneeds  tohirefolkwhohaveabrainbecauseeveryoneIhaveencounteredthroughoutthesystem  doesnothaveoneandtheyarecompletelyincompetent.   MylesfurthertestifiedthatLinkaskedhissupervisorforhisname.Shegavehislast  name.HethenaskedforhisfirstnameandsherepliedWilbert.ThereafterLink  continuedtoyellandproceededtorefertoMylesasWilbertwhichhefoundtobe  offensiveanddisrespectful.    E.. 6>F "XEInhissupervisorspresence,Linkproceededtoyellacrossthecounterandpointing " hisfinger,Wilbert,youhavebrokenthelawandstatedthathecouldbebroughtupon $  chargesandthattypeofthing. &""  MylesadmittedthathehasnotreadthePrivacyActortheMarylandPublic ($$ InformationActbutstateshistrainingmanualcontainsallrelevantinformation. *&&  AfterhearingMylestestimony,LinklatertestifiedthatMyleswasaliarandthat  Myleswasincrediblyrude,feisty,meanandliketheEnergizerbunny.   DeleaseRycehasbeenaCustomerAgentwithMVAsince1988.ShewasMyles  supervisorattheMondawminofficeinMay2002.Whileshewasonthetelephone,Myles   cametoherofficeandtoldherthatanattorneyrefusedtoshowhisidentification.Shehad   heardvoicesbutcouldntheartheconversations.    Aboutfivetotenminuteslater,sheleftherofficeandwenttoMyles'workstation.   BothMylesandLinkweregoingatit.Bothwerebeingrudetoeachother.Theirvoices  werenotinaconversationaltone.SheaskedMylestobequietandletmehandleit.   ShebelievesLinkaskedherwhattookyousolong?Sherepliedthatshewas  talkingonthephonewithtwocustomers.ShethinksLinksaidyouneedtohirea  competentperson.LinksaidexplaintomewhyIhadtowaittenminutes.Shereplied  thatyoudidn'tproduceanyidentification.SheexplainedtoLinkthateveryonehasto  showidentification.SheaskedLinkwhatkindofreportdoyouneed?Shethengavehim  theinformationhehadrequested.ShetestifiedthatLinkwasnotrudetoher.Shebelieves   Myleswasretaliating.MylesonlyretaliatedwhenLinksaidsomethingtohim.Itwas " backandforthbetweenMylesandLink. $   ShestatedthatLinkaskedherforMylesname.Whenshedidso.Linkreferredto &"" MylesasWilbert.ShedidnothearLinkcallMylesSparky.RyceisanAfrican ($$ American. *&&  TheabovesummaryofLink'stestimonyincludeshistestimonypresentedatthe  conclusionofBarCounsel'scase.Inaddition,LinkdidstatethatMyleswasincredibly  rudetothreecustomerswhowereinlinebeforeLinkandhesensedthatMyleswas  goingtobetrouble.HeclaimsMylesdemandedLinksidentificationandgaveLinka   hatestare.   LinkstatesthatMylesnevertoldhimthatSparkywasaraciallyoffensiveepithet.   Linkclaimsthathegetsalongwithblackpeople.    2.[EԀFindingsofFacts    AfterconsideringthetestimonypresentedatthehearingbeforethisCourtonJuly  30,2003andreviewingtheexhibitsadmittedintoevidence,thisCourtfindsthefollowing  factsbyclearandconvincingevidence:   1.Linkcastshimselfintheroleorprotectoroftheordinarycitizen.Hebelieves  hiscauseisjustandnecessary.Hisagendaistoexposewhatheperceivestobedualstandards  andunfairpoliciesofgovernmentalagencies.    2.Thiswasnotanisolatedincident.Linkhadapatternofpastconfrontationswith   agencypersonnel. "  3.Linkpursueshisagendawithdesignandpurposelyprovokescontroversy $  utilizingtacticsofsarcasm,verbalabuse,offensiveanddisrespectfullanguagewhichisnot &!"  protectedbytheFirstAmendmentandhadnosubstantialpurpose. (#$  4.Linksagendaismisguidedandhisconductwasunprofessionalandprejudicial   totheadministrationofjustice.   5.Linksangerneedstobecontrolled.   6.Linkstestimonythatheneverraisedhisvoiceduringthisincidentisnot   credible.    7.Mylesisapublicservanttryingtodohisjob.    8.MyleswasjustifiablyoffendedandembarrassedbyLinksconduct,languageand   attitude.   9.Ryce'stestimonyraisedinconsistenciesinMylestestimony.ThisCourtaccepts  ascredibleRycestestimonythatMyleshadalsoraisedhisvoiceandwasretaliatingtoLinks  verbalabuseandsarcasm.   10.Ryceisapleasantwomanandcrediblewitness.Shewasactingasapeace  maker.    &X?( 4 <DLX? 11.LinkdidnotknowthatthenameSparkywasraciallyoffensive.Linkdid  believehewascondescending.    TheundersignedhasnopersonalknowledgeofwhetherthenameSparkyisaracial " epithetorisraciallyoffensive.Theundersignedhasonlyheardthenameinreferencetoa $  WorldWarIIradioman,electricianorthebaseballmanager,SparkyAnderson. &"" Accordingly,theundersignedisunabletomakeafindingoffactinthatregard. ($$  IfindeedSparkyisraciallyoffensive,itsuseisobviouslyunprofessional,totally *&& inappropriateandincreasestheseriousnessandseverityoftheconfrontationandthe  consequences.   & !  WhetherSparkyisoffensiveorinnocuousinandofitself?( 4 <DL4X?dependsuponthe  circumstancesunderwhichitissaid,whosaiditandtowhomitisdirected.     Thepetitionerfilednoexceptionstothehearingcourtsfindingsoffactand   conclusionsoflaw.Itdidfile,however,PetitionersRecommendationforSanctions.   Notingthehearingcourtsfindingthattherespondentsconductwasunprofessionaland   engagedinthepursuitofa misguidedagenda,inwhichtherespondent,castinghimselfas  theprotectoroftheordinarycitizen, pursueshisagendawithdesignandpurposelyprovokes  controversyutilizingtacticsofsarcasm,verbalabuse,offensiveanddisrespectfullanguage  whichisnotprotectedbytheFirstAmendmentandhadnosubstantialpurpose,it  recommendsthattherespondentbesuspendedfromthepracticeoflawforthirty(30)days.    Insupportofthatrecommendation,thepetitionerreliesonFloridaBarv.Martocci,  791So.2d1074(Fla.2001),MatterofGolden,496S.E.2d619(S.C.1998)andAttorney  GrievanceCommnv.Alison,317Md.523,565A.2d660(1989).     InMartocci,WtheBarchargedthatMartoccimade unethical,disparaging,andprofane " remarkstobelittleand humiliatetheopposingparty,FlorenceBerger,andherattorney... $  andengagedininunethicalconfrontationwiththeopposingpartysfather#WW#.  #  7      ׀W791So.2dat &"" 1074.#W\Y#ԀTheoffensiveconductoccurred,italleged,inseparateincidentsduringthe  representationofthehusbandindivorceproceedingsandspannedaperiodoftwoyears.Id.  at1075.TherefereeconcludedthatMartocciengagedinthechargedconduct,which  consistedofdirectingdemeaning,insultingandintemperateremarks  #  8      ׀totheopposingparty   andhercounselandthreatening,inopencourt,thoughcourtwasnottheninsession,tobeat   thatpartysfather.Id.Thecourtacceptedtherefereessanctionrecommendation,publicly   reprimandingMartocciandplacinghimontwoyearsprobation,withconditions.Id.     TheconductforwhichtherespondentattorneyinGoldenwassanctionedsimilarly  wasengagedininconnectionwithhisrepresentationofclientsindivorceproceedings,  specifically,attwodepositions.Inthefirst,thedepositionofhisclientsformerboyfriend,  whoapparentlyinformedthehusbandsattorneyoftheformerboyfriendsrelationshipwith  thewifeafteritwasterminatedonadviceofGolden,Goldensexaminationdisplayed,the  HearingPaneldetermined, histotaldisregardandfailuretoshowanyrespectfortherights  ofathirdparty.496S.E.2dat622.Moreover,itwassatisfiedthat  8  Theextent,theintensity,thesarcasmandmaliciousness,theunnecessary  combativeness,thegratuitousthreateningandintimidation,andtheunequivocal   badmannersof[Attorney's]conductcouldhavebeenfornopurposeotherthan   toembarrassorburden[Mr.Smith].    Id.󀀀     Theseconddeposition,takeninadifferentcase,wasofthewifeofGoldensclient.   ЀAfterthedeposition,sheallegedthatGoldensaidtoher:W Youareameanspirited,vicious   witchandIdon'tlikeyourfaceandIdon'tlikeyourvoice.WhatI'dlike,istobelockedin  aroomwithyounakedwithaverysharpknife.Id.at621.Later,shestated,Golden  commented: Whatweneedforher[pointingtoMrs.Jones]isabigbagtoputherinwithout  themouthcutout.Id.ThehearingpanelconcludedthatGolden,inanagitatedvoiceand  withoutanattemptathumor,didcallMrs.Jones meanspiritedandstatethatsomeone  #Wb#shouldbelockedinaroomwithhernakedWandthathewouldliketoputabagoverher  withoutaholeforhermouth.#We#ԀId.at622.    Astothefirstdeposition,thecourtagreedthattheattorneyhadviolatedSouth ! CarolinasversionofRule4.4.Itstated: # 8  W Attorney'swordsspeakforthemselves.[  #  9     ]Evenifweassumethatthe %!! depositionwitnesswasuncooperative,Attorneywouldnotbejustifiedabusing  thiswitnessinthemannerillustratedabove.Therecordfurthershowsthat  AttorneyinterruptedSmithonnumerousoccasions.Moreover,theaudio  recordingrevealsthevolumeofAttorney'svoicewasrepeatedlyloud,andhis  statementsweresarcastic,rude,orotherwiseinappropriate.Heactedina  threateninganddemeaningmanner.Hisconductwasoutrageousand   completelydepartedfromthestandardsofourprofession,muchlessbasic   notionsofhumandecencyandcivility.#WMg#      ThecourtconcurredwiththehearingpanelsconclusionthatGoldensconductafter   theseconddepositionviolatedRule8.4(d),asitwasprejudicialtotheadministrationof   justice.Id.at623.Noting theWseriousnatureoftheissuesandhighlychargedatmosphere   ofthedeposition#WIl#W,thecourtconcludedthat Attorney'scommentsonlyservedtoinsultan  adverseparty.#Wl#ԀId.    Thecourtimposedasasanctionforbothcountsapublicreprimand.  W  ViolationsofRules4.4and8.4(d)werefoundandsustainedinAlison.TheRule4.4  violationwaspremisedontherespondentsissuanceofasubpoenatoanewspaperreporter  forthepurpose,thehearingcourtfound,ofharassinghimandpreventinghisreportingon  therespondentstrial.317Md.at539,565A.2dat668.The8.4(d)violationwas   premised,interalia,onthebehavioroftherespondenttowardDistrictCourtclerks.When   theclerksrefused,incompliancewithajudgesorder,toacceptforfilingpaperstendered   bytherespondentpostjudgment,therespondentdemanded, youhavetotakethefucking   papers,andintheirpresence,usedotherprofanities#W*n#W,includingreferringtotheattorneyfor  hisopponentasa sonofabitchandan asshole.Id.at531,565A.2dat66364.Ashe  leftthearea,hesaid fuckyoutothesupervisor.#Wq#WԀTherespondentwassuspendedfromthe  practiceoflawforninetydays.    WithrespecttotheRule4.4violation,theCourtrejectedtheonlychallengetoits  inapplicability,#Ws#WԀtherespondentsargument,thatitdidnotapplyduetothefactthathewasnot  representingaclient,onlyhimself.Itrecognized,inconnectionwiththeRule8.4violation  involvingtheverbalabuseoftheDistrictCourtclerks,thatthereisadifferencebetween   hurlingepithetsduringajudicialproceedingandengaginginthesameconductoutsidethe " courtroom.317Md.at536537,565A.2dat666.TheCourtpointedout,nevertheless,that $  while [a]ttorneysarenotprohibitedfromusingprofaneorvulgarlanguageatalltimesand &"" underallcircumstances#WOt#W,theyareprohibitedfromusingsuchlanguagewhentodosowould ($$ beprejudicialtotheadministrationofjustice.#WMw#WId.at538,565A.2dat667,citingInRe *&& Williams,414N.W.2d394,397(Minn.1987).    Assumingthattherespondentswordsdirectedtotheclerkswereprotectedspeech  withinthemeaningoftheFirstAmendment,theCourtheldthathisspeechandconducton  thatoccasiondidnotcomplywiththereasonable,necessary,andcontentneutralrestrictions   imposeduponattorneysbytheMarylandRulesofProfessionalConduct.#Wx#  #  10      ׀WԀId.at537,565   A.2dat666667.Weexplained:   8  WehavenohesitancyinconcludingthatAlison'sconductinhisprofessional   dealingswiththeclerkswasprejudicialtotheadministrationofjustice.Itis   notdifficulttovisualizethedamagetothecourtsystemandtothereputation  ofthelegalprofessionthatwouldresultifattorneyswerefreetoconducttheir  dailybusinesswithcourtclerksinthemanneremployedbyAlison.Thiscourt  hasnotonlytheauthoritybuttheobligationtocensureconductofthiskindby  anattorney.Asinthecaseofspeechwithinacourtroom,therestrictionsare  contentneutral,reasonable,necessary,anddonotcontraveneFirstAmendment  rights.#Wz#W   Id.at538,565A.2dat667.  Ѐ  Therespondentfiledexceptionstothefindingsoffactandtheconclusionsoflawof  thehearingcourt.  #  11      ׀#W~#ԀTosaythattherespondentdisagreeswiththehearingcourtsfindings  offactistoengageinunderstatement.Indeed,whathethinksofthehearingcourtsfact  findingissummarizedquiteearlyinhissubmission:  8  2.TheblatantpieceofadvocacyfortheCommissionmasqueradingasa  MemorandumOpinionbyJudgeCadiganisdisgraceful.Itgoesbeyond   rubberstampingandwellintotherealmofovertcheerleadingforthe   Commission.Itconstitutestheactionsofashamelesssycophantwhohas   openlycolludedwiththeCommissiontobringaboutapreordainedresult.It   isobviousthatmycompletetestimonywasdisregardedbyJudgeCadigan,   exceptforthoseportionswhichcouldberegardedasdetrimentaltomycase,   whichwereruthlesslyrecorded,andfrequentlydistorted.Mr.Myles   testimony,whichwasriddledwithinconsistenciesandnumerousoutrightlies,   wastreatedasholywrit.    Thereafter,therespondentdetailsatlengththevariousdeficienciesfromwhichhebelieves  theMemorandumOpinionsuffers,characterizingthemaserrors,inaccuraciesandintentional  distortions.Inaddition,therespondentaccusesthehearingcourtofabdicatingits  responsibilityasfinderoffact.    ConcerningthecourtsconclusionthatheviolatedRule4.4,therespondentmaintains  thattheRuleeitherdoesnotapplyorisunconstitutionallyvague.IftheRuledoesapply,he  submits,hisspeechdirectedtoMr.Mylesandincriticismofthegovernment,  #  12      ׀wasprotected  speech,thatdidnotdisrupttheoperationsofacourthouseand,therefore,isnotsanctionable.  Inanyevent,therespondentasserts: IhadasubstantialpurposeincriticizingWilbert  Mylesconduct.Ihadnointenttoembarrass,delay,orburdenhim.Ifsuchwastheresult  ofmydecisiontocriticizeagovernment,thenthefaultwashisandnotmine.Iwasdelayed   andburdenedbecauseofhisillegalactionswhichdidnotevencomplywithhisowntraining   manual,letalonestateorfederallaw.     Itiswellsettledthat,inattorneydisciplinecases,wereviewthefindingsoffactofthe   hearingcourttodeterminewhethertheyarebasedonclearandconvincingevidence.See  AttorneyGrievanceCommnv.Post,379Md.60,74,839A.2d718,736(2003);Attorney  GrievanceCommnv.Davis,375Md.131,158,825A.2d430,446(2003);Attorney  GrievanceCommnv.Barneys,370Md.566,577,805A.2d1040,1046(2002);WAttorney  GrievanceCommnv.Powel#W#Wl,328Md.276,287,614A.2d102,108(1992);#W#WAttorney  GrievanceCommnv.Clement#W#Ws,319Md.289,298,572A.2d174,179(1990).#W#X4XԀ#XX4#Indeed,we  conductanindependentreviewoftherecord.`0=AttorneyGrievanceCommnv.Wallac#`0=#0=e,368  Md.277,288,793A.2d535,542(2002).#0=#0=Moreover,wehavesaid,the hearingcourt's  findingsoffactareprimafacie#0=#Ԁ0=correctandwillnotbedisturbedunlesstheyareshowntobe  clearlyerroneous,AttorneyGrievanceComm'nv.Garland,345Md.383,392,692A.2d  465,469(1997)(citingAttorneyGrievanceComm'nv.Goldsborough,330Md.342,347,   624A.2d503,505(1993)).SeeAttorneyGrievanceCommnv.McCoy,369Md.226,234   235,798A.2d1132,1137(2002),andthatwewillnotdisturbthosefactualfindingsifthey   arebasedonclearandconvincingevidence.#0=,#`0=AttorneyGrievanceCommnv.Monfrie#`0=#0=d,368   Md.373,388,794A.2d92,100(2002).#0=+#0=Ԁ#0=#0=Ontheotherhand,theultimatequestion,whether  alawyerhasviolatedtheprofessionalrules,what,inotherwords,tomakeofthosefacts#0=#0=,  restswiththisCourt#0=ו#0=.Post,379Md.at74,839A.2dat726;Garland,345Md.at392,692  A.2dat469;AttorneyGrievanceComm'nv.Breschi,340Md.590,599,667A.2d659,663  (1995).SeeAttorneyGrievanceCommnv.Sheinbein,372Md.224,240,812A.2d981,  990(2001).#0=D#Ԁ    WThefindingsoffactinthiscasearenotclearlyerroneous.Infact,thereisample  evidenceintherecord,whichwehaveindependentlyreviewed,tosupporteachofthem.   Tobesure,thehearingcourtdidnotaddressexpresslyeachofthedefensestherespondent " raisedorspecificallyrejecthisvariouscontentionsconcerningthecomplainingwitnesss $  credibility.Aswestatedrecently,seeAttorneyGrievanceCommnv.Braskey,378Md. &"" 425,446,836A.2d605,618(2003),thatisnotrequired#W#0=.InBraskey,weexplained: ($$ 8  Weareunabletosaywhythehearingjudgeomittedreferencetorespondents *&& testimonyregardingtheFebruarycalls.Itmaybethatthejudgedidnotbelieve +'' respondent;itmayhavebeenanoversight.Inanycase,evenifthejudge  believedrespondent,thehearingjudgeisnotrequiredtorecountallofthe  evidencepresentedatthehearing.#0=#`0=SeeAttorneyGrievanceCommnv.  Granger,#`0=#0=374Md.438,453,823A.2d611,620(2003)(notingthatitis  elementarythatthehearingjudgemayelecttopickandchoosewhichevidence  torelyupon).#0=#0=    Therespondentsexceptions,totheextentthattheychallengethehearingcourtsfindings   offact,areoverruled.     Turningtothequestionofwhether,asthepetitionercontends,therespondentviolated   Rules4.4and8.4(d)or,astherespondentmaintains,therulesdonotapplyorhedidnot   violatethem,wehavebeenreferredtonocase,andwehavefoundnone,inwhichthe  conductsoughttobesanctionedoccurredundercircumstancessimilartothosesubjudice.  Inthecasesonwhichthepetitionerrelies,includingAlison,andthecaseswehavefound,  seeIntheMatterofWeir,#0=#W668N.E.2d679(Ind.1996);#W*#0=ԀIntheMatterofBurns, #0=# 657N.E.2d  7380=Ԁ(Ind.1995);IntheMatterofVincenti,#0=#554A.2d4700=Ԁ(N.J.1989);#0=#0=IntheMatterof  McAlevy,#0=#W354A.2d289#W[#0=Ԁ(N.J.1976);IntheMatterofMezzacca, #0=#W 340A.2d658#W"#0=Ԁ(N.J.1975),  #0=v#0=theoffendingconductoccurredduringtheactuallitigationprocessorwhileinterviewing  clientsorothersinconnectionwithlitigationorpotentiallitigation. !   Thus,inBurns,theconductforwhichtheattorneywassanctionedconsistedof # threateningbehaviorandremarksmadetoapartytothelitigationduringtherecessofapre %!! trialhearing.Morespecifically,theattorneysaid,interalia, '## 8  #0=ڥ#Letme...letmewarnyouaboutsomething.Ifyoufileanythingwiththe )%% bankruptcycourtagainstme,I'llbeaskingforattorneyfeesandpunitive *&& damages.Youhavemywordonit,...Andthenexttimeyouwritemyclient +'' aletter,I'mnotgoingtofileanythingwiththeCourt;I'mgoingtocomeover  toyourhouseandI'mgoingtohityouintheheadwithabaseballbat.Now,you  maynotbepracticinglaw,butyouknowbetterthanthat.IfIeverfindoutyou  wrotemyclientaletteragainorsenthimanything,you'vegotmetodealwith.  Doyouunderstand:Youbetterunderstanditrightnow,becauseI'mnotgoing  totellyouasecondtime.Now,that'smypromisetoyou,righthereonthe   record.I'mgoingtocomeovertoyourhouseandbeatyouhalftodeathwitha   baseballbat.0=    657N.E.2dat739.Later,theattorney,awarethathewasspeakingontherecord,   acknowledged#0=9#thathewasthreateningtheopposingpartyphysically,adding:   8  You'lleitherfollowtherulesoryou'llhavetodealwithme.Doyou   understand?AndifIhavetotellyouthatagain,you'regoingtogooutofhere  inahospitalvan.Don'tpressyourluck,...Don'tpressyourluck.Because  you'renotgoingtolikemeifI'mangry.Youwon'twalkawayfromit,I  guaranteeyou.Don'tlookgravetome,becauseifyoudo,you'rea...  (obscenity).sweartoGod.   Id.ThecourtconcludedthattherespondentviolatedRules4.4and8.4(d),reasoning:his   threateningbehaviortoadefendanthadnopurposeotherthantoembarrass,delay,or  burdensuchperson.Conductofthisnatureduringthecourseofalegalproceedingis  prejudicialtotheadministrationofjustice.Id.  Ѐ  Theconduct,describedbythecourtasWrude,intimidatinganddisruptive#W|#,forwhich   therespondentinMezzaccaWԀwassanctionedhewasreprimandedasinviolationofRules " 4.4and8.4(d),occurredbeforeanadministrativereviewboardconductingdepartmental $  hearingsinconnectionwithmisconductchargesbroughtagainsttheattorneysclient.340 &"" A.2dat658.Thecourtsummarizedtheoffendingconduct,asfollows: ($$ 8  Whenrespondentappearedbeforethereview boardhechallengeditsrightto *&& hearthematteronthegrounditwasinnowaylegallyconstituted.Heclaimed +'' thesheriffwasbiasedagainsthisclientandwasjustlookingfortheopportunity  togetridofhim.Heassertedthattheproceedingwasaconspiracytoviolate  hisclient'scivilrightsanddemandedthatthehearing stoprightnow.During  thecourseofthehearingrespondentreferredtotheboardasa Kangaroo  Court.Hesaidthehearingwas awasteofcountymoney,perpetratedbya  dementedsheriffthatthinksheisaKingoraGod.Hecharacterizedthe   membersoftheboardas Nazis,that'swhatyouare.Hetoldoneofthe   membersoftheboardthat Youmayhavetoanswertoahighertribunalthan   thisbeforethisisover,includingtheGrandJury.Hemadenumerous   accusationsastolyingandthreatenedseveraltimestogototheprosecutorand   havethepersonindicted.Atonepointrespondentsaid: IfyouwantMr.Jones   tobeindictedputhimonthestand.BecauseIwill seetoitthathewillbe   indicted.Believeme,hewillbeindicted.    Id.at65859.    InVincenti,themisconduct,forwhichtherespondentwassuspendedforthreemonths  anduntilfurtherorderofcourt,occurredduringatrialcallandatthetrialofacivilpersonal  injuryactionthattherespondentfiledonbehalfofhisclient.Itconsistedof#W #engagingina  courseofharassmentandintimidationinanactivelylitigatedcaseintheSuperiorCourt  againsthisadversaryandhiswitness,includingchallengingopposingcounselandhiswitness  toafightonseveraloccasions,usingloud,abusive,andprofanelanguageagainsthis  adversaryandopposingwitness,and,onatleastoneoccasion,employingracialinnuendo.   554A.2dat473.Accordingtothecourt: Thisconductwaspervasiveandrecurrent, " continuingfromthetimeofthetrialcalluntilafterthefilingofamotionforanewtrial.It $  indisputablywas,orhadtheclearcapacitytobe,disruptive,distracting,andunsettlingto &"" personshavingsignificantresponsibilitiesandimportantrolesinthehandlingofthe ($$ litigation.WId. *&&   TherespondentinMcAlevywassanctioned,areprimand,formisconductduringa  criminaltrial.Atabenchconferenceoutofthejuryshearing,therespondentrespondedto  therequestbytheDeputyAttorneyGeneraltokeephisvoicedownwithathreatofphysical  violence.Subsequently,duringachambersconference,inthecourseofanargument   concerningthescopeofasequestrationorder,therespondent,reactingtoremarksofthe   DeputyAttorneyGeneral,flewintoarage, sprangfromhischairscreaming,grabbed   opposingcounselbythethroatandbegantochokehimandameleebetweenthetwomen   thereafterensueduntilbrokenupwiththeassistance#W #ofthejudge,hislawclerkandothers.    TherewerethreeincidentsinWeir.Ineachofthem,theattorney,inthepresenceof  athirdparty,ineachinstanceawoman,fondledhisgenitalsandormasturbated.Inthefirst,  hewasmeetingwithadefendantinhiscapacityasDeputyProsecutingAttorneytodiscuss  resolutionofhercasebypretrialdiversion.Inthesecond,thewomanwasaclientwhowas  consultingtherespondentaboutfilingbankruptcy.Thethirdincidentalsoinvolvedaclient,  astudent,whowasatthetimeengagedinworkingoffthefeesheowedtherespondentby  babysittingathishome.   d#d"Ԁ  Inthiscase,theconduct0=Ԁinwhichtherespondentengagedandtheremarkshemade #d tothethirdparty#0=#0=,whileoccurringduringtherepresentationofaclientandinthecourseof %d  obtaininginformationbeneficialtothatclient,didnotoccurinthecourthouseorinvolve 'd"" courtpersonnel.Neitherwerethepartiestothelitigationortheirattorneysinvolvedinthe )d$$ confrontationortheobjectsoftherespondentsconductorremarks.Anditwasnotduring +d&& theactuallitigationprocessoranyoneofitsstagesthattheincidentatissuetookplace.  Rather,theconfrontationwaswith,andtheresultingconductandremarksweredirectedat,  anagentofthecustodianoftherecordsthattherespondentwasattemptingtoobtainandwas  theresultoftherespondentsperception#0=#0=Ԁthattherequirementsforaccessingtheinformation   imposedbytheagentwereimproperandevenillegal.     Tobesure,#0=-#WԀatthefoundationoftheruleoflawisrespectforthelaw,thecourtsand   judgeswhoadministerit.Andtheattorneyswhopracticelawandappearinthecourtsare   officersofthecourt.McAlevy,354A.2dat290291.Consistently,asChiefJustice  BenhamoftheGeorgiaSupremeCourtpointedout:  8  Thepracticeoflawisanhonorableprofessionthatrequiresahighstandardof  conductofitsmembers.Itisahighcallingwherecompetence,civility,  community service,andpublicserviceareintegralpartsoftheprofessional  standards.Itisnotaprofessionwhere disrespectful,discourteous,andimpolite  conductshouldbenurturedandencouraged.Suchconductshouldbealiento  anyhonorableprofession.   dh8  Thosewhoholdthemselvesoutaslawyersshouldrealizethattheyhelpshape h andmoldpublicopinionastotheroleofthelawandtheirroleaslawyers.The h lawsetsstandardsforsocietyandlawyersserveasproblemsolverswhen h conflictsarise.Tofulfilltheirresponsibilityasproblemsolvers,lawyersmust  h exhibitahighdegreeofrespectforeachother,forthecourtsystem,andforthe !h public.Bydoingso,lawyershelpto enhancerespectforandtrustinourlegal "h system.Thesenotionsofrespectandtrustarecriticaltotheproperfunctioning #l ofthelegalprocess.#W#W$l   Buttsv.State,546S.E.2d472,48586(2001)(Benham,C.J.,Concurring).#W0#W &l!!   Itfollows,therefore,and,indeedcannotbegainsaid,that#W#0=attorneysarerequiredtoact (l## withcommoncourtesyandcivilityatalltimesintheirdealingswiththoseconcernedwith *l%% thelegalprocess,#0=#0=ԀMcAlevy,354A.2dat290291,seeAlison,317Md.at537,565A.2dat ,l'' 666,andthat#0=# [c]onductcalculatedtointimidateanddistractthosewho,thoughinan  adversarialposition,haveindependentresponsibilitiesandimportantrolesintheeffective  administrationofjusticecannotbecountenanced.0=Ԁ#0=R#Vincenti,554A.2dat473.Thus,   [v]ilification,intimidation,abuseandthreatshavenoplaceinthelegalarsenal[,]   0=Mezzacca,340A.2dat659,#0=E#Ԁcommoncourtesyandcivilitybeingexpectedfromamember   ofthebarwhetherappearingbeforetheState'shighestcourt,someadministrativebodyor   proceedingsancillaryto,butanecessarypartof,thelitigation.Id.Thisissobecausethe   effectivenessoftheadversarysystemdependsontheeffectivenessofadversarycounseland  becauseconductcharacterizedby theundueandextraneousoppressionandharassmentof  participantsinvolvedinlitigationand consciouslyandintentionallyengage[d]inperverts  advocacy.Vincenti554A.2dat47374.Moreover,  8  Suchconductredoundsonlytothedetrimentoftheproperadministrationof  justice,whichdependsvitallyonthereasonablebalancebetweenadversaries  andonopposingcounsels'respect,trust,andknowledgeoftheadversary  system.Therecannotbegenuinerespectoftheadversarysystemwithout  respectfortheadversary,anddisrespectfortheadversarysystembespeaks  disrespectforthecourtandtheproperadministrationofjustice.   Id.at474.Anattorneywhoseconductinthepracticeoflawischaracterizedbylackof ! civility,goodmannersandcommoncourtesytarnishestheimageofwhatthebarstandsfor.0= # McAlevy,354A.2dat291.#0=#Ԁ0= %!!   Asindicated,thiscasedoesnotfallwithinthisconstruct.Therespondentwasnot '## dealinginthiscasewithaperson concernedwiththelegalprocess;#0=K#0=thecomplainantisnot )%% apartytolitigationinwhichtherespondentisattorney,norisheawitnessoropposing +'' counsel.Moreover,therespondentsinteractionwiththecomplainantwasnotduringthe  courseoflitigationorcourtproceedings;whiletherespondentwasrepresentingaclient,he  wasgatheringinformationthatmaybecomeevidenceinatrialand,thus,hewasengaged  solelyinpreparationforlitigation,ratherthanactuallybeinginvolvedinlitigation.     Nevertheless,itistrue,thisCourthasinterpretedthephrase, prejudicialtothe   administrationofjusticebroaderthanthepracticeoflaw,toencompass#0=a# conductthelawyer   engagesinoutsidehisorherroleasalawyer.0=AttorneyGrievanceComm'nv.Childress,360   Md.373,383,758A.2d117,122(2000)#0="#0=.SeeAttorneyGrievanceCommnv.Sheinbein,  372Md.224,251,812A2d981,997(2002)( #0=#thisCourthasfoundconducttobeprejudicial  totheadministrationofjusticeinviolationofRule8.4(d)whentherehaseitherbeenconduct  thatiscriminalinnatureorconductthatrelatestothepracticeoflaw);AttorneyGrievance  Comm'nv.Black,362Md.574,766A.2d119(20010=)(findingaRule8.4(d)violationfor  possessionofcocaine);#0=#Ԁ0=AttorneyGrievanceComm'nv.Atkinson,357Md.646,745A.2d  1086(2000)#0=#0=Ԁ(failingtofile,andpay,personalincometaxes);AttorneyGrievanceComm'n  v.Painter,356Md.293,739A.2d24(1999)(committingactsofdomesticviolence);#0=2#0=   #0=.#0=AttorneyGrievanceCommissionv.Gilbert,356Md.249,251,739A.2d1,2(1999)(#0=# Tobe " sure,itcannotbegainsaidthatthepossessionofcocainebyalawyer,anofficerofthecourt, $  especiallywhenitresultsinaconvictionandprobationisprejudicialtotheadministration &"" ofjustice.).SeealsoAttorneyGrievanceComm'nv.Richardson,350Md.354,368,712 ($$ A.2d525,532(1998),inwhichwesaid: *&& 8  Therespondentarguesthattobeconductthatisprejudicialtothe  administrationofjustice,theactmustbeonethathindersorotherwise  interfereswithajudicialproceedingofwhichheisapartyorrepresentsaparty.  ThisCourthasneversonarrowlydefinedRule8.4(d).Wehaveinstead  recognizedthatconductthatimpactsontheimageortheperceptionofthe  courtsorthelegalprofession,seeAttorneyGriev.Comm'nv.Alison,317Md.   523,536,565A.2d660,666(1989)andthatengendersdisrespectforthecourts   andforthelegalprofessionmaybeprejudicialtotheadministrationofjustice.   Lawyersareofficersofthecourtandtheirconductmustbeassessedinthat   light.      Wehavesuggested,however,buthavenottestedwhether,alawyer'snon-criminal,   purelyprivateconductmightbeabasisfordisciplineunderRule8.4(d).SeeChildress,360   Md.at385-86.(suggestingthat,whileRule8.4(d)hasbeenappliedinourcasesonlyto  conductwhichisrelatedtothepracticeoflaw,directlyorindirectly,orwhentherehasbeen  acriminalconvictionorconductwhichiscriminalinnature,alawyer'snon-criminal,purely  privateconductmightbeabasisfordisciplineundertheRule,notingspecificallythat the  harm,orpotentialharm,inastrangersolicitingsexovertheInternettoyounggirls,after  imploringthemtokeepthemeetingasecretfromtheirparents,ispatent).Becausethe  conductinChildresswasarguablycriminal,theissuewasnotaddressedinthatcase.    Theissuemustbeaddressedinthiscase.Therespondentsconduct,asfoundbythe ! hearingcourt,wasrude,boorish,insensitive,oppressiveandcertainlyinsulting,butitwas # notevenarguablycriminal.Norwastherespondentengagedinapurelypersonalpursuit. %!! Althoughhewasrepresentingaclientatthetimeoftheincident,thatfactwasnotreadily '## apparentorsoughttobeemphasized.Indeed,therespondentresistedinformingthe )%% complainantthathewasalawyer.Aconfrontation,withresultingsimilarbehaviorby_the +'' respondent,likelywouldhaveoccurredinanyevent.    Tobesure,conductofthekindexhibitedbytherespondentinthiscasewhendirected  towardamemberofthepublicbyalawyernegativelyaffectstheperceptionoflawyersand,  inthatsense,maybreeddisrespectforthelegalprofessionandpotentiallyforthecourts.See   Alison,317Md.at536,565A.2dat666.Undoubtedly,itreinforcedthecomplainants   alreadynegativeviewoflawyers.Asimportantascivilityandprofessionalismareas   professionalstandardsandasdesirableasitisthatcivilityandcommoncourtesybetherule   ofthedayintheinterpersonalrelationsbetweencitizens,itisneitherfeasiblenordesirable  thateverysocialinteractionbetweenalawyerandanonlawyerberegulatedtoinsurethat  thelawyeracts,ineachsuchinstance,withtherequisitecivilityandcourtesy._d  #  13      _ԀOnlywhen  suchpurelyprivateconductiscriminalorsoegregiousastomaketheharm,orpotential  harm,flowingfromitpatentwillthatconductbeconsideredasprejudicing,orbeing  prejudicialto,theadministrationofjustice.    ThisCourtconsiderstherespondentsconductinthiscasetobemostinappropriate  andunfortunate,anditisconductthatwedonotcondone.Nevertheless,itbeingneither   criminalnorconductofthekindthattheharmorpotentialharmflowingfromitispatent,we  holdthatitisnotconductthatisprejudicialtotheadministrationofjusticeand,thus,isnot  sanctionable.Thepetitionfordisciplinaryactionisdismissed.  DeITISSOORDERED.    {    ЀF  F  F  F  F  F  F  F  F  F  F  F  F  F  F  F  F  F  F  F  lF  F  F  F     D *&& XX84XXdXd8  X4X@''-&INTHECOURTOFAPPEALSOFMARYLAND#XX4#Ԉ  0   @3&%%Misc.DocketAG@@;&No.97 p @GG4&SeptemberTerm,2003 p  ______________________________________ p  @0&ATTORNEYGRIEVANCECOMMISSION@@&&>& p  @9&OFMARYLAND p  @=&v. p  @5&HAROLDS.LINK,JR.@@&&>& p ______________________________________ p   Bell,C.J. p Ѐ  Raker p   _Wilner_ p   _Cathell_ p   _Harrell_ p   _Battaglia_ p Ѐ_Eldridge_,JohnC. p   (retired,speciallyassigned) p     \ JJ. p" ______________________________________ p#  @]].&ConcurringOpinionby_Wilner_,J., p%!" @1&which_Battaglia_,J.,joins p&"# ______________________________________ p'#$   Filed:March19,2004 p)%&   p,() XX  IjoinintheCourtsOpinion,becauseIbelievethat,howeverinappropriateLinks  behaviorwas,itdidnotconstituteaviolationof_MRPC_Ԁ8.4(d).Iwriteseparatelyonlyto  expressmyindignationoverLinksbehaviorinthisCourtduringargumentonBarCounsels   petition.Onmorethanoneoccasion,heaccusedAssistantBarCounselofsuborningperjury,   acriminaloffenseinthisState.Hewasquestionedaboutthat,whetherhisaccusationwas   mere(butnonethelessgrosslyinappropriate)rhetoricalflourishorwhetherhereallymeant   toaccusebarcounselofcriminalbehavior,andhemadeclearthatitwasthelatter.    Thereisutterlynobasisintherecordforsuchanaccusation.Linksunsupported  accusationcannotbeusedagainsthiminthisproceeding,butIfinditinexcusableand  deplorable.IfLinkcontinuestoactashehasdone,belittlingotherpeopleandmaking  unfoundedaccusationsagainstthem,heissurelyheadedforadditionalproblemswithBar  CounselandwiththisCourt.    Judge_Battaglia_Ԁhasauthorizedmetostatethatshejoinsinthisconcurringopinion.   *&& aP  a w a  ^CircuitCourtforBaltimoreCounty  CaseNo.03C03001185  <INTHECOURTOFAPPEALSOFMARYLAND   Misc.DocketAGNo.97   SeptemberTerm,2002   ______________________________________________   ATTORNEYGRIEVANCECOMMISSION  OFMARYLAND  v.  HAROLDS.LINK,JR.  _______________________________________________  z  Y s Bell,C.J.   s Raker   s _Wilner_   s _Cathell_   s _Harrell_   s _Battaglia_   0 s _Eldridge_,JohnC.(retired,speciallyassigned),  !s(#s(#   JJ. # _______________________________________________ $  ConcurringopinionbyRaker,J.#^#^, &"" inwhich_Eldridge_,J.,joins '## ______________________________________________ ($$ p  Filed:March19,2004 *&& ^X4X^   ,(( #X4XX^X4##XX4<# [<_8 dXXd8    Raker,J.,withwhom_Eldridge_,J.joins,concurring:    IconcurinthejudgmentoftheCourtandwoulddismissthepetitionbecauseBar  Counselhasnotsustaineditsburdentoprovebyclearandconvincingevidencethat  respondentusedameansinrepresentingaclientthathadnosubstantialpurposeotherthan   toembarrass,delayorburdenathirdperson,inviolationofRule4.4.Respondents   conduct,althoughhighlyinappropriateandunprofessional,wasnotunethicalsubjectinghim   todisciplineundertheRulesofProfessionalConduct.   @)I.    Idisagreewiththemajoritysconclusionthatbecauserespondent,althoughhewas  representingaclient,wasnotdealingwithapersonconcernedwiththelegalprocess,this  casedoesnotfallwithintheconstructofRule4.4,RespectforRightsofThirdPersons.See  maj.op.at24.AsIreadthemajorityopinion,themajoritydeterminesthatinordertocome  withintheambitofRule4.4,thecomplainantmustbeapartytothelitigationinwhichthe  respondentisanattorney,awitnessoropposingcounsel.Id.at2425.Moreover,gathering   informationinpreparationforatrialorconductinpreparationforlitigationwouldnotfall " withintheRule.ItseemstomethatRule4.4isbroadenoughtocovertheconductofa $  lawyerwho,whileactinginthatcapacity,interactswithaStateemployeeand usesmeans &"" inrepresentingaclientwhich havenosubstantialpurposeotherthantoembarrass,delayor ($$ burdenathirdperson. *&&   InconsideringwhetherrespondentviolatedRule4.4,welookatthepurposeofhis ,(( actionsratherthantheeffect.MarylandRule4.4focusesonthe substantialpurposeofthe  lawyersactions,andnotontheeffecttheconductmighthaveuponthethirdperson.See  AmericanBarAssociation,AnnotatedModelRulesofProfessionalConductR.4.4_cmt_.at  424(4thed.1996);IdahoStateBarv._Warrick_,44P.3d1141,1145(Idaho2002);   MississippiBarv.Robb,684So.2d615,621(Miss.1996).Iagreewiththemajoritys   analysisthatrespondentsconfrontationinthemattersubjudice waswith,andtheresulting   conductandremarksweredirectedat,anagentofthecustodianoftherecordsthatthe   respondentwasattemptingtoobtainandwastheresultoftherespondentsperceptionthat  therequirementsforaccessingtheinformationimposedbytheagentwereimproperand  evenillegal.Maj.op.at23.Althoughrespondentwasrude,hispurposewasnotto  embarrass,delayorburdenathirdperson.Accordingly,BarCounselhasnotprovena  violationoftheRule.  @)II.    IalsodonotsubscribetothemajoritysconstructofRule8.4(d).Themajoritysets   outatwoprongtesttodetermineifalawyersconductcomeswithintheRule: Onlywhen " suchpurelyprivateconductiscriminalorsoegregiousastomaketheharm,orpotential $  harm,flowingfromitpatentwillthatconductbeconsideredasprejudicing,orbeing &"" prejudicialto,theadministrationofjustice.Maj.op.at27(emphasisadded).Iagreethat ($$ theRulecoverscriminalconduct.Idonotagree,however,withtheviewthattheRuleis *&& applicabletoanyconductwhichissoegregiousastomaketheharm,orpotentialharm,  flowingfromitpatent.Thephrase prejudicialtotheadministrationofjusticeisnot  definedintheRulesofProfessionalConduct,nordotherulesorourcaselawgiveguidance  forapplicationtospecificcircumstances.Thestandardembracedbythemajorityis   ambiguousandelusive.Itsmacksof IcantdefineitbutIknowitwhenIseeit.Simply   becausesomeconductissoobviously_violative_ԀoftheRuleand prejudicialtothe   administrationofjusticedoesnot,inmyview,savetheRule.Itisunfairtolawyersinthe   StatetobesubjectsimplytothemoralbarometeroffourjudgesofthisCourt.Dueprocess  requiresmore"alawyerisentitledtohavefairnoticeofconductwhichwouldsubjecthim  orhertodisciplineundertheRulesofProfessionalConduct.Thestandardadoptedbythe  Courttodayfailstogivefairnotice.    IwouldconstrueRule8.4(d)toapplytocriminalconductor,whendealingwith  privateconduct,suchconductthatisinsomewayconnectedtothepracticeoflaw.See  AttorneyGrievance_Commn_Ԁv._Sheinbein_,372Md.224,812A.2d981(2002)(_Eldridge_,J.,  dissenting,joinedbyRaker,J.).Judge_Eldridge_Ԁpointedoutthat,until_Sheinbein_,thisCourt   hasfoundconducttobeinviolationofRule8.4(d)onlywhentherehasbeenconductthat " iscriminalinnature,orwhenthelawyersconductconcernedhisownlegalpracticeorhis $  relationshipwithhisclients.Id.at27677,812A.2dat101112. &""   Insum,Idonotsubscribetothemajoritystwoprongdescriptionofthevarioustypes ($$ ofconductwhichviolateRule8.4(d)becausethatdescriptiondoesnotcaptureanessential *&& element,whichisthattheconductmusteitherbecriminalconduct,orconductthathassome  connection,directlyorindirectly,tothepracticeoflaw.    Judge_Eldridge_Ԁauthorizesmetostatethathejoinsinthisconcurringopinion.  h# #`