A.C. No. 7428 - VICTORIA C. SOUSA, COMPLAINANT, VS. ATTY. J. ALBERT R. TINAMPAY.D E C I S I O N - Supreme Court E-Library

Ruling

WHEREFORE , the Court finds respondent Atty. J. Albert Tinampay GUILTY of violating Canons 17, 18 and Rules 18.03 and 18.04 of the Code of Professional Responsibility. Accordingly, the Court SUSPENDS him from the practice of law for one (1) year effective immediately upon receipt of this Decision. He is STERNLY WARNED that a repetition of the same or similar acts shall be dealt with more severely in the future. Respondent is likewise ORDERED to return the amounts of P121,000.00 and $950.00, computed at the exchange rate prevailing at the time of actual payment which shall earn legal interest at the rate of 6% per annum from the finality of this Decision until fully paid. Respondent shall submit to the Court proof of restitution within ten (10) days from payment. Failure to comply with this directive shall warrant the imposition of a more severe penalty. Let all the courts, through the Office of the Court Administrator, as well as the Integrated Bar of the Philippines and the Office of the Bar Confidant, be notified of this Decision. Let a copy of this Decision be entered in the records of respondent. SO ORDERED.