In re J.C.

Summary

The Court adopted the Commission’s stipulated findings and conclusions that Judge Sean A. Cole violated Canons 1, 2A, and 5F by continuing to practice law after taking judicial office and by failing to wind down his solo practice despite repeated guidance. The Court concluded that the conduct constituted willful misconduct and conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice that brought the judicial office into disrepute, and it approved the recommended sanction of censure. The Court emphasized the repeated nature of the conduct, its effect on public confidence, and Cole’s cooperation, remedial efforts, and lack of prior disciplinary history.