The Florida Bar v. Brian P. Rush

Summary

The court approved the referee’s findings that Brian P. Rush violated seven professional-conduct rules by disregarding his client’s settlement objectives, failing to communicate adequately, pursuing excessive fees, allowing his financial interests to conflict with the client’s interests, asserting unsupported claims, threatening disciplinary charges, and obstructing the administration of justice. Applying deferential review to the referee’s factual findings and broader review to the recommended sanction, the court imposed a three-year suspension and assessed $19,761.47 in costs. The court also required Rush to comply with specified practice-transition and reinstatement conditions.