Opinion
D-134 September Term 2020 085954
03-23-2022
In the MATTER OF Nancy MARTELLIO, An Attorney At Law (Attorney No. 045972005)
ORDER The Disciplinary Review Board having filed with the Court its decision in DRB 20-280, concluding that Nancy Martellio of Vineland, who was admitted to the bar of this State in 2005, should be suspended from the practice of law for a period of six months for violating RPC 1.4(c) (failure to explain a matter to the extent reasonably necessary to permit the client to make informed decisions regarding the representation), RPC 7.1 (a) (false communications about the lawyer, the lawyer's services, or any matter in which the lawyer has or seeks a professional involvement), RPC 8.4 (b) (criminal act that reflects adversely on a lawyer's honesty, trustworthiness, or fitness as a lawyer), and RPC 8.4 (c) (conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation);
And the Court having determined from its review of the matter that a three-month suspension from practice is the appropriate quantum of discipline for respondent's unethical conduct;
And good cause appearing;
It is ORDERED that Nancy Martellio is suspended from the practice of law for a period of three months, effective April 21, 2022, and until the further Order of the Court; and it is further
ORDERED that respondent comply with Rule 1:20-20 dealing with suspended attorneys; and it is further
ORDERED that pursuant to Rule 1:20-20(c), respondent's failure to comply with the Affidavit of Compliance requirement of Rule 1:20-20(b)(15) may (1) preclude the Disciplinary Review Board from considering respondent's petition for reinstatement for a period of up to six months from the date respondent files proof of compliance; (2) be found to constitute a violation of RPC 8.1(b) and RPC 8.4(d) ; and (3) provide a basis for an action for contempt pursuant to Rule 1:10-2; and it is further
ORDERED that the entire record of this matter be made a permanent part of respondent's file as an attorney at law of this State; and it is further
ORDERED that respondent reimburse the Disciplinary Oversight Committee for appropriate administrative costs and actual expenses incurred in the prosecution of this matter, as provided in Rule 1:20-17.