Nick Steffens Contempt

7/27/2019 Nick Steffens Contempt

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Supr eme Cour t o f Jf lort i iaTUESDAY, MAY 28, 2013

CASE NO. : SCI2-1722Lower Tribunal No(s).: 2013-50,197(17C)

THE FLORIDA BAR vs. NICHOLAS THEODORESTEFFENS

Complainant(s) Respondent(s)The Florida Bar filed a Petition for Contempt alleging that Respondent has

failed to respond to official Bar inquiries. This Court issued an Order to ShowCause directing Respondent to respond by a date certain why he should not be heldin contempt and sanctioned. Thereafter, The Florida Bar filed a "Notice ofRespondent's Compliance" stating that Respondent subsequently responded to theinquiries, albeit not in a timely manner. The Court takes very seriously everyattorney's obligation to completely and timely respond to inquiries made by TheFlorida Bar. Therefore, because Respondent did not respond to the inquiries in atimely manner, Nicholas Theodore Steffens is hereby held in contempt and ishereby publicly reprimanded.

Judgment is entered for The Florida Bar, 651 East Jefferson Street,Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2300, for recovery of costs from Nicholas TheodoreSteffens in the amount of $1,250.00, for which sum let execution issue.

Not final until time expires to file motion for rehearing, and if filed,determined.POLSTON, C.J., and PARIENTE, LEWIS, QUINCE, CANADY, LABARGA, andPERRY, JJ., concur.A True CopyTest:

ddServed:KENNETH LAWRENCE MARVIN RONNA FRIEDMAN YOUNGNICHOLAS THEODORE STEFFENS

Clerk, Supreme Court


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IN THE SUPREME COURT OF FLORIDA

THE FLORIDA BAR,Supreme Court CaseComplainant, No.

v. The F lorida Bar F ileNo. 2013-50,197 (17C)NICHOLAS THEODORE STEFFENS,Respondent.

PETITION FOR CONTEMPT AND ORDER TO SHOW CAUSECOMES NOW, The Florida Bar, Complainant, in the above-referenced

matter, pursuant to Rule 3-7.1 l(f), Rules Regulating The Florida Bar, and files thisPetition for Contempt and Order to Show Cause, and states the following:

1. A copy of the Findings of Seventeenth Judicial Circuit GrievanceCommittee "C" as to Contempt in Bar File No. 2012-51,116(17C) is attached tothis Petition as "Exhibit 1".

2. As of the date of the service of this Petition, Respondent has failed torespond to multiple Bar inqu iries with respect to that ma tter.

3. A copy of the Findings of Seventeenth Judicial Circuit GrievanceCommittee "C" as to Contempt in Bar File No. 2012-51,269(17C) is attached tothis Petition as "Exhibit 2" .

4. As of the date of the service of this Petition, Respondent has failed to


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respond to multiple Bar inquiries with respect to that matter.WHEREFORE, The Florida Bar requests that this Court suspend the

Respondent pursuant to Rule 3-7.11(f), until such time as he fully responds inwriting to the official Bar inquiries contained in "Exhibit 1" and "Exhibit 2" anduntil further order of this Court.

Respectfully-submitted,

Friedman Young, Bar CounselFlorida BarLake Shore Plaza II1300 Concord Terrace, Suite 130Sunrise, Florida 33323(954) 835-0233Florida Bar No. 563129

CERTIFICATE OF SERVICEI HEREBY CERTIFY that the original of the foregoing has been furnishedby regular U.S. Mail to The Honorable Thomas D. Hall, Clerk, The SupremeCourt of Florida, 500 South Duval Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1900; byCertified Mail No. 7011 2970 0003 0076 3840, return receipt requested, toRespondent, Nicholas Theodore Steffens, whose record bar address is Nicholas T.Steffens & Associates, 9900 W. Sample Rd., Ste. 300, Coral Springs, FL 33065-4077 and to Kenneth Lawrence Marvin, Staff Counsel, The Florida Bar, 65 1 E.Jefferson Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2300; all this day of

20 \T - .

Ronna Friedman Young, Bar Counsel


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CERTIFICATE OF TYPE, SIZE AND STYLEI HEREBY CERTIFY that the Petition for Contempt and Order to Show

Cause of The Florida Bar is subm itted in 14 point proportionately spaced Time sNew Roman font in M icrosoft Word format.

Ronna Friedman Y oung, Bar Counsel


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IN TH E SUPREME COURT OF FLORIDA(Before a Grievance Committee)

THE FLORIDA BAR,Complainant,

The Florida Bar Filev. No. 2012-51,116 (17C)NICHOLAS THEODORE STEFFENS,

Respondent

FINDINGS ON SEVENTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT GRIEVANCECOMMITTEE "C"AS TO CONTEMPTSeventeenth Judicial Circuit Grievance Committee "C," by and through its

undersigned Chair, makes the following findings pursuant to Rule 3-7.1 l(f)(2) ofthe Rules Regulating The Florida Bar:

1. By letter dated May 31, 2012 to respondent's bar address of record,The Florida Bar requested that respondent provide a response to the bar grievancefiled by Brian Fleming. A copy of the letter is attached hereto as Exhibit A.

2. The bar receivedno response, and the letter was returned to the bar asundeliverable.

3. On July 3, 2012, The Florida Bar resent its May 31, 2012 letter torespondent at an updated record bar address. This letter was sent bycertified mail,return receipt requested, requesting a written response on or before July 13,2012.

THE FLORIDA BAR'SEXHIBIT


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A copy of the July 3, 2012 letter and signed return receipt card are attachedhereto as Exhibit B.

4. The bar received no response.5. By letter dated July 24, 2012 sent by regular mail and certified mail,

the bar informed respondent that the grievance committee would consider hisfailure to respond at its meeting on August 6, 2012. A copy of this letter dated July24,2012 and green card receipt are attached hereto as Exhibit C.

6. Respondent made no response.7. The grievance committee considered respondent's failure to respond

at its meeting on August 6,2012.8. The Grievance Committee found that respondent failed to show good

cause for failing to respond to the official bar inquiries. The committee furtherfound respondent to be in contempt an d requested that the bar file a Petition forContempt andOrder to Show Cause with the Supreme Court.

Dated this Y day of jkM/cuL , 2012./ ISeventeenth Judicial CircuitGrievance Committee "C"

BY Alice Elizabeth Solomon, Chair/Florida Bar No. 5988608751 West Broward Blvd., Suite 106Fort Lauderdale, F1L33324-2630(954) 652-0100


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THE FLORIDA BARFT. LAUDERDALE BRANCH OFFICEJOHN F. HARKNESS, JR. LAKE SHORE PLAZA n (954) 835-0233E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R 1300 CONCORD TERRACE, SUITE 130 W W W . F L O R I D A B A R . O R G

SUNRISE, FLORIDA 33323

May 31, 2012

M r. Nicholas Theodore SteffensNicholas T. Steffens & Associates5571 North University Dr. Suite 101Coral Springs, FL 33067-4653Re: Complaint of Brian Fleming against Nicholas Theodore Steffens

The Florida Bar File No. 2012-51,116(17C)Dear M r. Steffens:This matter has just been assigned to the undersigned. Enclosed is a copy of aninquiry/complaint and any supporting documents submitted by the above referencedcomplainant(s). Your response to this complaint is required under the provisions of Rule4-8.4(g), Rules of Professional Conduct of the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar, and is duehi our office byJune 15,2012. Failure to provide a written response to this complaint is in itselfa violation of Rule 4-8.4(g). You are further requested to furnish the complainant with acomplete copy of your written response, including an y documents submitted therewith.Please be certain to address the following items in your response:

1. When were you retained to represent Brian Fleming and for what purpose? If you have awritten retainer agreement or any written document which memorializes the terms ofyour representation, please provide copies.2. What were you paid for the representation?3. What communications did you send to him or receive from him during the periodNovember 2011 through April 2012? Please provide copies of all communications,including emails, sent to him or received from him during the period.4. Please describe generally the services provided to Mr. Fleming and the dates youperformed the services.5. M r. Fleming's name is not contained on the list of clients attached to your affidavit (copyenclosed) submitted to the bar pursuant to R Regulating Fla. Bar 3-5.l(g). Pleaseexplain whynot.


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Mr. Nicholas Theodore SteffensM ay 31, 2012Page 2 of2

6. It appears that you represented Mr. Fleming at the effective date of your suspension(November 10, 2011). Please state whether you did or did not represent Mr. Fleming asof the effective date of your suspension. If you take the position that you did notrepresent Mr. Fleming, please state the date that your representation terminated andprovide any correspondence in this regard.

7. It appears that you continued to represent during the time you were a delinquent memberof The-Florida-Bar for delinquency associated with failure to pay restitution and costsfollowed by delinquency for failing to comply with your continuing legal educationrequirement. Please state whether you represented Mr. Fleming during the period whenyou were a delinquent member.

Please note that pursuant to Rule 3-7. l(b), Rules of Discipline, any reports, correspondence,papers, recordings and/or transcripts of hearings received from either you or the complainant(s)shall become a part of the public record in this matter and thus accessible to the public upon adisposition of this file. Pursuant to Rule 3-7.1(f), Rules of Discipline, you are further required tocomplete and return the enclosed Certificate of Disclosure form.If either you or the complainants) believe any material provided to The Florida Bar isconfidential under applicable law, undersigned counsel should be advised of that fact so thatmeasures can be taken to seal that portion of the file. It should be noted that The Florida Bar isrequired to acknowledge the status of proceedings during the pendency of an investigation, if aspecific inquiry is made and the matter is deemedto be in the public domain.Finally, the filing of this complaint does not preclude communication between the attorney andthe complainant(s).Sincerely,

Ronna Friedman YoungBar CounselEnclosures (Certificate of Disclosure, Notice of Grievance Procedures, Copy of Complaint)cc: Mr. Brian Fleming


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Pursuant to Rule 3-7.1(f), Rules of Discipline, you must execute the appropriate disclosureparagraph below andreturn the form to this office by June 15, 2012. The rule provides that thenature of the charges be stated in the notice to your firm; however, we suggest that you attach acopy of the complaint.

CERTIFICATE OF DISCLOSUREI HEREBY CERTIFY that on this day of , 20 , a true copy ofthe foregoing disclosure was furnished to , a member ofmy present law firm of ,and/or to , a member of the lawfirm-of , withwhich I was associated at the time of the act(s) giving rise to the complaint in The Florida BarFile No. 2012-51,116(170).

Nicholas Theodore Steffens

CERTIFICATE OF DISCLOSURE(Corporate/Government Employment)I HEREBY CERTIFY that on this day of , 20 , a true copy of theforegoing disclosure was furnished to , my supervisor at(name of agency), withwhich I was associated at the time of the act(s) giving rise to the complaint in The Florida BarFile No. 2012-51,116 (17C).

Nicholas Theodore SteffensCERTIFICATE OF NON-LAW FIRM AFFILIATION(Sole Practitioner)

I HEREBY CERTIFY to The Florida Bar on this day of , 20 ,that I am not presently affiliated with a law firm and was not affiliated with a law firm at the timeof the act(s) giving rise to the complaint in The Florida Bar File No. 2012-51,116 (17C).



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NOTICE OF GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES

1. The enclosed letter is an informal inquiry. Your response is required under theprovisions of The Rules Regulating The Florida Bar 4-8.4(g), Rules of Professional Conduct.Failure to provide a written response to this complaint is in itself a violation of Rule 4-8.4(g). Ifyou do not respond, the matter will be forwarded to the grievance committee for disposition inaccordance with Rule 3-7.3 of the Rules of Discipline.2. Many complaints considered first by staff counsel are not forwarded to a grievancecommittee, as they do not involve violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct justifyingdisciplinary action.3. "Pursuant to Rule 3-7.l(a), Rules ofDiscipline, anyresponse by you in these proceedingsshall become part of the public record of this matter andthereby become accessible to the publicupon the closure of the case by Bar counsel or upon a finding of no probable cause, probablecause, minor misconduct, or recommendation of diversion. Disclosure during the pendency ofan investigation may be made onlyas to status if a specific inquiry concerning this case is madeand if this matter is generally known to be in the public domain."4. The grievance committee is the Bar's "grand jury." Its function and procedure are setforth in Rule 3-7.4. Proceedings before the grievance committee, for the most part, are non-adversarial in nature. However, you should carefully review Chapter 3 of the Rules RegulatingThe Florida Bar.5. If the grievance committee finds probable cause, formal adversarial proceedings, whichordinarily lead to disposition by the Supreme Court ofFlorida, will be commenced under 3-7.6,unless a plea is submitted under Rule 3-7.9.


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THE FLORIDA BARFT. LAUDERDALE BRANCH OFFICE

JOHNF.HARKNESS.JR. LAKE SHORE PLAZA H (954)835-0233E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R 1300 CONCORD TERRACE, SUITE 130 W W W .F L O R ID A B A R .O R GSUNRISE, FLORIDA 33323

May 31, 2012

Mr. Brian Fleming3001 East League City Pkwy., # 1607League City, TX 77573Re: Complaint of Brian Fleming against Nicholas Theodore SteffensThe Florida Bar File No. 2012-51 , 1 1 6 (17C)Dear M r. Fleming:This matter has just been assigned to the undersigned. Enclosed is a copy of my letter to Mr.Steffens which requires a response to your complaint. Please supply m e with copies of theemails referenced inyour complaint and any other correspondence sent to or received fromM r. Steffens. Please be certain to send these copies to me hi Sunrise, Florida, not to thebar's Tallahassee office. You should provide M r Steffens with copies and show anappropriate "cc" to him.Once you receive the response, you have 10 days to file a rebuttal if you so desire. If you decideto file a rebuttal, please send a copy to Mr. Steffens. Please address any and all correspondencetome.Please be advised that as an arm of the Supreme Court of Florida, The Florida Bar caninvestigate allegations of misconduct against attorneys, andwhere appropriate, request that theattorney be disciplined. The Florida Bar cannot render legal advice nor can The Florida Barrepresent individuals or intervene on their behalf in anycivil or criminal matter.Sincerely,

Ronna Friedman YoungBar CounselEnclosures (Notice of Grievance Procedures, Copy of Letter to Mr. Steffens)cc: Mr. Nicholas Theodore Steffens


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1. The enclosed letter is an informal inquiry. Your response is required under theprovisions of The Rules Regulating The Florida Bar 4 8.4(g), Rules of Professional Conduct.Failure to provide a written response to this complaint is in itself a violation of Rule 4 8.4(g). Ifyou do not respond, the matter will be forwarded to the grievance committee for disposition inaccordance with Rule 3-7.3 of the Rules of Discipline.2. Many complaints considered first by staff counsel are not forwarded to a grievancecommittee, as they do not involve violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct justifyingdisciplinary action.3. "Pursuant to Rule 3-7.1(a), Rules of Discipline, anyresponse by you in these proceedingsshall become part of the public recordof this matter and thereby become accessible to the publicupon the closure of the case by Bar counsel or upon a finding of no probable cause, probablecause, minor misconduct, or recommendation of diversion. Disclosure during the pendency ofan investigation may be made only as to status if a specific inquiry concerning this case is madeand if this matter is generally known to be in the public domain."4. The grievance committee is the Bar's "grand jury." Its function and procedure are setforth in Rule 3-7.4. Proceedings before the grievance committee, for the most part, are non-adversarial in nature. However, you should carefully review Chapter 3 of the Rules RegulatingThe Florida Bar.5. If the grievance committee finds probable cause, formal adversarial proceedings, whichordinarily lead to disposition by the Supreme Court ofFlorida, will be commenced under3-7.6, unless a plea is submitted under Rule 3-7.


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T H E F L O R I D A B A RI N Q U I R Y / C O M P L A I N T F O R M T l i e F l o r i d a ivT a l l a h a s s e e , H f t i r tPART ONE (See Page 1, PART ONE -Required Information.*Your Name: Brian FlemingOrganization:Address: 3001 E League CityPkwy 1607City: League City state:Zip Code: 77573 Phone: (281)739-8653Email: [email protected] Reference No.

Attorneys Name: Nicholas T. SteCfensAddress: 5571 N. University Drive Suite 101City: Coral Springs Stole: FLZip Code: 33076 Telephone: (954) 323-8956

PART TWO (See Page 1,PART TWO- Facts/Allegations.): Thespecific tiling or dungs I amcomplaining about are:hired Mr. Steffens January2011 for child custody/visitation. I have kept Mr. Steffens updated on all through out this

whole process. AsofAugust 20111hadnot heard from him untilNovember2011. In November 2011 he sent m y wife anemafl stating he was going to get working on setting up a depo with the defendant andwouldsendus updated paperworkthe following Monday regarding his plan for the case. Monday he sent an email stating he was sick andwas out of theoffice andsaid he would work on it Tuesday. As oftoday February1,2012 we still have notheard from himagain. Ihavetriedcalling him and left several messages on voicemail fo r him to call me back, and my wife has sent him several emaibexpressing our dissatisfaction with his conduct. Mywife has toldhim ifhe could not continue on our case to please sendour retainer of $5,000 USD back to us so we mayhire someone whowill proceed with the case.

onPARTTHREE (See Page 1,PART THREE- Witnesses.): Thewitnesses in support ofmy allegations are: [see attachedsheet].

PART FOUR (See Page 1, PARTFOUR-Signature.): Under penames of perjury, I declare that theforegoing facts aretrue, correct and complete.

Signature Date


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STATE OF FLORIDACOUNTY OFAFFIDAVIT

I, Nicholas Theodore Steffens, after being duly sworn, say:This affidavit is submitted pursuant to Rule 3-5. l(g)of the Rules of Discipline in conjunctionwith the decision hi The Florida Bar v. Nicholas Theodore Steffens, SC1 1 -521 ;The Florida BarFile No. 2011-50,329 (17F)OSC._ 1 . Ihad no clients(s) or matter(s) pending at the tune ofthe order directing me tocease the practice oflaw.OR

_ . 2.a. I have furnished a copyof the court order to all my clients with matters pendingwhen the court's order was served on me; andb. to all opposing counsel andco-counsel in the matters listed in 2a, above; and,c. To all courts, tribunals, or adjudicative agencies before which I am counsel ofrecord.d. The names andaddresses of all persons andentities that have been furnished with

such notification are indicated on the attached list (Exhibit A), and such is acomplete listing of allpersons andentities notified pursuant to this rule.FURTHER AFFIANTSAYETH NOT.

NICHOLAS THEODORE STESWORN TO AND SUBSCRIBED before me this M^day of ^7Z>& si.20

noPersonally known to me or producedthe following identification:

Return to: The Florida BarAttention: Lisa F. Chason, Legal Secretary651 East Jefferson StreetTallahassee, Florida 32399-2300

Type of Identification


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Exhibit ASt. Lucie Clerk of CourtP. O. Box 700Fort Pierce, Florida 34954Palm Beach County Clerk ofCourt205 N. Dixie HighwayWest Palm Beach, FloridaMiami Dade Clerk of CourtMiami-Bade County Courthouse73 West Flagler Street, Suite # 242Miami, Florida 33130Broward C ounty Clerk of Court201 SE 6th StreetFort Lauderdale, Florida 33301Shapiro and Fishman2424 N . Federal HighwayBoca Raton, Fl 33431JP Morgan Chase Bankc/o CT Corporation System1200 S.Pine Island RoadPlantation, Florida 33324Greenspoon Marder PA100 West Cypress C reek RoadFort Lauderdale, FL 33309Scott Fistel, Esq.950 S. Pine Island Road, Suite A-150Plantation, FL 33324Michael J. McCabe1001 Kings A venue, Suite 201Jacksonville, FL 32007First Horizon Home Loan Corporation4000 H orizon WayIrving,Texas 75063Pollack andRosen,PA800 Douglas Road, North TowerCoral Gables, Florida 33134

Zakheim and Associates, PA1045 S. University DrivePlantation, FL 33324Albertelli LawPOB 23028Tampa FL 33623The R idgeview AssociationFoundation Property Services4750 W. Commercial BoulevardTamarac,FL33319Carriage Homes at Terramar CAc/o Cindy Whittle RA953 University DriveCoral Springs, Florida 33071Villas I of the Waterwaysc/o Associated Corporate Service, LL C6111 Broken Sound Parkw ayBoca Raton FL 33487Marshall C. Watson PA1800 NW 49th Street, Suite 120Fort L auderdale, FL 33309Ternbridge Homeowners Association, Incc/o David Haag, R.A.2295 NW Corporate BoulevardCoral Springs, FL 33071The Fox Ridge Associationc/o Prime Management6300 Park ofCommerce BoulevardBoca Raton, FL 33487Florida Default Law Group9119 Corporate L ake Drive, Suite 300Tampa, FL 33634Aames Funding C orp.9915 Mira Mesa, Suite 100San Diego, CA 92131


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Exhibit AIrvin W.Nachman, Esq.Mainlands ofTamarac Sect 8. Assoc4441 Stirling RoadFort Lauderdale, FL 33314Van Ness LawFinn1239 E. Newport Center Drive, Suite 110Deerfield Beach, FL 33442Kevin L Morrisc/o Marcus and Millichap5900 N. Andrews Avenue, Suite 100Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309Law Office of DavidJ. Stern, P.A.900 S. Pine Island RoadPlantation FL 33324Village of Wellingtonc/o Jeffrey Kurtz, Esq.14000 Greenbriar BoulevardWellington, FL 33414MERSc/o EDS Corp.3300 SW 34th AvenueOcalaFL 34474Robert C. Martin, Esq.319 SE 14th StreetFort Lauderdale, FL 33316Minto Comunities, LLCRobert C. Martin, Esq.319 SE 14th StreetFort Lauderdale, FL 33316Postley Village HOARobert C. Martin, Esq.319 SE 14th StreetFort Lauderdale, FL 33316Olympia Master AssociationRobert C. Martin, Esq.319 SE 14th StreetFort Lauderdale, FL 33316

Loggers Run, Inc.c/o ACS, LLC6111 Broken SoundParkway, Suite 200Boca Raton, FL 33487Lake Arbor Village HOAc/o Robert Dugar, Sr.3399 NW 72nd Avenue, Suite 215Miami, FL 33122Steven CrippsPOB 1869West Palm Beach, FL 33402Florida DOR881 S. Congress AvenueWest Palm Beach, FL 33406Pickett, Marshall, andRozenson, PA325 Clematis Street, 2ndFloorWest Palm Beach, FL 33401Broad andCassellOne North Clematis Street, Suite 500West Palm Beach, FL 33401AbbyGirton6922 Mill Brook PlaceLake Worth, FL 33463The Springs at Boynton Beach CO Ac/o Atkinson Diner, et al.100 SE 3rd Avenue, Suite 1400Fort Lauderdale, FL 33394Wagner andHuntPOB 934788Margate, Florida 33093Zwicker andAssociates, PC10500 Dorwood Park Bouleavard, Bldg 300Jacksonville, FL 32256


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THE FLORIDA BARFT. LAUDERDALE BRANCH OFFICEJOHN F. HARKNESS, JR. LAKE SHORE PLAZA H (954) 835-0233E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R 1300 CONCORD TERRACE, SUITE 130 W W W . F L O R I D A B A R . O R G

SUNRISE, FLORIDA 33323July 3, 2012

V ia Certified Mail No. 7011 2970 0003 0076 3765Return Receipt RequestedNicholas Theodore Steffens, Esq.Nicholas T. Steffens & Associates9900 W. Sample Rd., Ste. 300Coral Springs, FL 33065-4077Re: Complaint by Brian Fleming against Nicholas Theodore Steffens

The Florida Bar File No. 2012-51,116 (17C)Dear M r. Steffens:Enclosed please find correspondence originally sent to you on May 31, 2012 at your NorthUniversity Drive address. This mail was returned to The Florida Bar as undeliverable. You havesince complied with Rule 1-3.3 of the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar and updated your recordBar address.Please provide your written response with a copy to the complainant on or before July 13,2012.Sincerely,

Ronna Friedman YoungBar CounselRFY/aakEnclosurecc: Brian Fleming w/o enclosure

EXHIBIT


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UNI T E D S T A T E S P O S T A L S E R V I C E First-Class MailPostage & Fees PaidUSPSPermit No. (3-10

f

FT.

Sender Please print your name, a ddress, and ZIP+4 in this box

The Florida Bar9 201' L 6shoreplazan'Sulte1300 Concord TerraceHE FLORIDA BAffnrise/FL33323tJAUDERDALE OFFICE

-JX

1- Artfcte Addressed to:S'fot* -rfe4Safti> %5&?fex-n D. (sdaBveryaiJdww


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THE FLORIDA BARF T . L A U D E R D A L E B R A N C H O F F I C EJOHN F. HARKNESS, JR. LAKE SHORE PLAZA H (954) 835-0233

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 1300 CONCORD TERRACE, SUITE 130 W W W . F L O R ID A B A R . O R GSUNRISE, FLORIDA 33323

July 24 , 2012

VIA REGULAR U.S. MAIL ANDCERTIFIED MAIL NO. 7011 2970 0003 0076 3819RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTEDNicholas Theodore Steffens, Esq.Nicholas T. Steffens & Associates9900 W . Sample Rd., Ste. 300Coral Springs, FL 33065-4077Re: Complaint of Brian Fleming against Nicholas Theodore SteffensThe Florida Bar File No. 2012-51,116 (17C)Dear Mr. Steffens:By letter dated May 31, 2012, The Florida Bar requested that you provide a response to thecomplaint filed by Brian Fleming. Enclosed is a copy of said letter. Additionally, on July 3,2012, The Florida Bar provided an additional copy of the M ay 31,2012 by certified mail.Enclosed is a copy of the July 3, 2012 letter and the signed returned receipt card. To date, Ihave not received your response to the complaint.Please note that Rule 4-8.4(g) provides that your failure to respond to an official inquiry with nogood cause shown may be a matter of contempt and processed hi accordance with Rule3-7.1 l(f)(2) of the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar. You are hereby notified that should youfail to comply with Rule 4-8.4(g) and provide a full written response concerning the complaint ofBrian Fleming, such failure shall be considered bySeventeenth Judicial Circuit GrievanceCommittee "C" at its meeting on August 6, 2012. This consideration shall be for the sole andexclusive purpose of determining whether or not there is good cause shown for your failure torespond. In reaching its determination, the grievance committee will consider all correspondencebetween you and The Florida Bar on this matter. A list of the current members of GrievanceCommittee 17C is enclosed for your information.

EXHIBIT( L


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Nicholas Theodore Steftens, Esq.July 24, 2012Page 2Sincerely,

Ronna Friedman YoungBar CounselRFY/aakEnclosurescc: Brian Fleming w/o enclosures


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SEVENTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT GRIEVANCE COMMITTEE CAlice Elizabeth Solomon, Attorney, Chair, Hillenbrand, O' Brien &Solomon,L.L.P.Jane Carlene Rankin, Attorney, Vice Chair, Kubicki, Draper, et al.Lee F. Lasris, Esq., Florida HealthLaw CenterStacey Schulman, Attorney, Morgan & Morgan P.A.Cheryl Sucker, Attorney, Cheryl Bucker Law O f f i c e sAdriana Rocio Alcalde, Attorney, State Attorneys O f f i c eDavid Diaz (N/L)Renee Fletcher, (N/L) North West Medical Center - Director of Risk ManagementCraig Norton, (N/L) Morgan StanleyNOTE;The above list of grievance committee members is furnished in accordance with RulesRegulating The Florida Bar, chapter 3, Rule 3-7.4, solelyfor the purpose of determining whethera basis for recusal may exist with respect to any particular member or members of the grievancecommittee who mayhear the matter under consideration. Rule 3-3.4(c) precludes a member o f ~ agrievance committee from performing a grievance committee function when that member: (1) isrelated by blood or marriage to the complainant or respondent; (2) has a financial, business,property or personal interest in the matter under consideration, or with the complainant orrespondent; (3) has a personal interest which could be affected by the outcome of theproceedings or which could affect the outcome; or (4) is prejudiced or biased toward either thecomplainant or the respondent. The individual members of the grievance committee, other thanthe investigating member, should not be contacted concerning the merits of the matter underconsideration. If yoa determine that a member of the grievance committee should recuse himselfor herself from hearing the matter under consideration, you should contact the staff attorney withThe Florida Bar who is assigned your file and the grievance committee chairperson.

Rev. 7/1/12


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SENDER: COMPLETE THIS SECTIONComplete items 1, 2, and 3. Also completeitem 4 if Restricted Delivery is desired.Print your nameandaddresson the reverseso that we can return the card to you.Attach thiscard to theback of themailpiece,or on the front if space permits.

1. ArticleAddressedto'

C OMPL ET E THIS SECTION ON DELIVERY

DAgentDAddressee

D. Isdelivery addresstlifl&rerit from item 1? UYesIfYES, enter delivery addressbelow: dNo

3. SeryIceTypeQ Certified MailDRegisteredD Insured Mail

DExpress MailDReturn Receipt forMerchandiseDC.OD.4. Restricted Delivery? (Extra Fes; DYes

2. ArticleNumber(Transfer from service label) 7D11 S T 7 D D D D 3 D D 7 b

PS Form 3811,February 2004 Domestic Return Receipt 102595-02-M-1540


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IN THE SUPREME COURT OF FLORIDA(Before a Grievance Committee)

TH E FLORIDA BAR,Complainant, The Florida Bar FileNo.2012-51,269 (17C)

v.NICHOLAS THEODORE STEFFENS,

Respondent.

FINDINGS ON SEVENTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT GRIEVANCECOMMITTEE "C" AS TO CONTEMPT

Seventeenth Judicial Circuit Grievance Committee "C," by and through itsundersigned Chair, makes the following findings pursuant to Rule 3-7,1 l(f)(2) ofthe Rules RegulatingThe Florida Bar:

1. By letter dated March 15, 2012 to respondent's bar address of record,The Florida Bar requested that respondent provide a response to the bar grievancefiled byNancy Torres. A copy of the letter is attached hereto as Exhibit A.

2. The bar received no response.3. By letter dated April 11, 2012, The Florida Bar reminded respondent

of his obligation to respond. A copy of the April 11, 2012 letter attached hereto asExhibit B.

THE FLORIDA BAR'SEXHIBIT


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4. The bar received no response.5. By letter dated May 21, 2012, The Florida Bar informed respondent

that the matter was being referred to the Fort Lauderdale branch office of TheFlorida Bar. A copy of the letter is attached hereto as Exhibit C.

6. The letter was returned as "unable to forward" by the post office.7. By letter dated July 3, 2012 sent by certified mail to an updated

address, The Florida Bar again requested respondent's written response. A copy ofthe letter dated July 3, 2012 and signed return receipt card are attached hereto asExhibit D.

8. The bar receivedno response.9. By letter dated July 24, 2012 sent by regular and certified mail, the

bar informed respondent that the grievance committee would consider his failure torespond at its meeting on August 6, 2012. A copy of this letter dated July 24, 2012and signed return receipt are attached hereto as Exhibit E.

10. Respondent made no response.11. The grievance committee considered respondent's failure to respond

at its meeting on August 6,2012.12. The Grievance Committee found that respondent failed to show good

cause for failing to respond to the official bar inquiries. The committee furtherfound respondent to be in contempt and requested that the bar file a Petition forContempt andOrder to Show Cause with the Supreme Court.


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Dated this Y day of j IlUvCL;-, L 2012Seventeenth Judicial CircuitGrievance Committee "C"

BY /Chair^ Florida Bar No. 5988608751 West BrowardBlvd., Suite 106Fort Lauderdale, FL 33324-2630(954)651-0100


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THE F L O R I D A BAR6 5 1 EAST J E F F E R S O N S T R E E TJ O H N F. H A R K N E S S , JR. T A L L A H A S S E E , FL 32399-2300 850/561-5600E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R W W W . F L O R I D A B A R . O R G

March 15, 2012Mr. Nicholas Theodore SteffensNicholas T. Steffens & Associates5 5 7 1 N University Dr Ste 101Coral Springs, FL 33067-4653Re: ComplaintbyNancy Torres against Nicholas Theodore Steffens

The FloridaBar File No. 2012-51,269 (17F)Dear Mr. Steffens:Enclosed is a copy of an inquiry/complaint and any supporting documents submitted by the abovereferenced complainants). Your response to this complaint is required under the provisions of Rule 4-8.4(g), Rules of Professional Conduct of the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar, and is due in our office byMarch 29, 2012. Responses should not exceed 25 pages and may refer to any additional documents orexhibits that are available on request. Failure to provide a written response to this complaint is in itself aviolation of Rule 4-8.4(g). Please note that any correspondence must be sent through the U.S. mail: wecannot accept faxed material. You are further requested to furnish the complainant with a completecopy of your written response, including any documents submitted therewith.Please note that pursuant to Rule 3-7.1(b), Rules of Discipline, any reports, correspondence, papers,recordings and/or transcripts of hearings received from either you or the complainant(s) shall become apart of the public record in this matter and thus accessible to the public upon a disposition of this file. Itshould be noted that The Florida Bar is required to acknowledge the status of proceedings during thependency of an investigation, if a specific inquiry is made and the matter is deemed to be in the publicdomain. Pursuant to Rule 3-7.l(f), Rules of Discipline, you are further required to complete and returnthe enclosed Certificate of Disclosure form.Finally, the filing of this complaint does not preclude communication between the attorney and thecomplainants). Please review the enclosed Notice for information on submitting your response.Sincerely,

Heidi E. Brewer, Bar CounselAttorney Consumer Assistance ProgramACAP Hotline 866-352-0707Enclosures (Certificate ofDisclosure, Notice of Grievance Procedures, Copy of Complaint, Notice -Mailing Instructions)cc: Ms. Nancy Torres

EXHIBIT


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Pursuant to Rule 3-7. l(f), Rules of Discipline, you must execute the appropriate disclosureparagraph below andreturn the form to this office byMarch 29,2012. The rule provides thatthe nature of the charges be statedhi the notice to your firm; however, we suggest that you attacha copy of the complaint.-

CERTIFICATE OF DISCLOSUREI HEREBY CERTIFY that on this day of , 201 , a true copyofthe foregoing disclosure was furnished to , a member ofmy present law firm of , and,if different, to , a member of the law firm of, with which I was associatedat the time of the act(s) giving rise to the complaint in The Florida Bar File No. 2012-51,269(17F).


CERTIFICATE OF DISCLOSURE(Corporate/Government Employment)

I HEREBY CERTIFY that on this day of , 20 1 , a true copyofthe foregoing disclosure was furnished to ,my supervisorat (name of agency), withwhich I was associated at the tune of the act(s) giving rise to the complaint in The Florida BarFile No. 2012-51,269 (17F).

Nicholas Theodore SteffensCERTIFICATE OF NON-LAW FIRM AFFILIATION

(Sole Practitioner)I HEREBY CERTIFY to The Florida Bar on this day of , 201 ,that I am not presentlyaffiliated with a law firm and was not affiliated with a law firm at the timeof the act(s) giving rise to the complaint hi The Florida Bar File No. 2012-51,269 (17F).



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1. The enclosed letter is an informal inquiry. Your response is required under theprovisions of The Rules Regulating The Florida Bar 4-8.4(g), Rules of Professional Conduct.Failure to provide a written response to this complaint is in itself a violation of Rule 4-8.4(g). Ifyou do not respond, the matter will be forwarded to the grievance committee for disposition inaccordance with Rule 3-7.3 of the Rules of Discipline.2. Many complaints considered first by staff counsel are not forwarded to a grievancecommittee, as they do not involve violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct justifyingdisciplinary action.3. "Pursuant to Rule 3-7.1 (a), Rules of Discipline, anyresponse by you in these proceedingsshall become part of the public record of this matter and thereby become accessible to the publicupon the closure of the case by Bar counsel or upon a finding of no probable cause, probablecause, minor misconduct, or recommendation of diversion. Disclosure during the pendency ofan investigation may be made only as to status if a specific inquiry concerning this case is madeand if this matter is generally known to be in the public domain."4. The grievance committee is the Bar's "grand jury." Its function and procedure are setforth in Rule 3-7.4. Proceedings before the grievance committee, for the most part, are non-adversarial in nature. However, you should carefully review Chapter 3 of the Rules RegulatingThe Florida Bar.5. If the grievance committee finds probable cause, formal adversarial proceedings, whichordinarily lead to disposition by the Supreme Court ofFlorida, will be commenced under 3-7.6,unless a plea is submitted under Rule 3-7.9


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THE FLORIDA BAR651 E A S T J E F F E R S O N S T R E E T

J O H N F . H A R K N E S S , J R . T A L L A H A S S E E , FL 32399-2300 850/561-5600E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R W W W . F L O R I D A B A R . O R GMarch 15, 2012

Ms. Nancy Torres5336 N.W.I98th TerraceMiami, FL 33055Re: Nicholas Theodore Steffens; The Florida Bar File No. 20 1 2-5 1 ,269 (1 7F)Dear Ms. Torres:Enclosed is a copy of our letter to Mr. Steffens which requires a response to your complaint.Once you receive Mr. Steffens's response, you have 10 days to file a rebuttal if you so desire. Ifyou decide to file a rebuttal, please send a copy to Mr. Steffens. Rebuttals should not exceed 25pages and may refer to any additional documents or exhibits that are available on request. Pleaseaddress any and all correspondence to me. Please note that any correspondence must be sent-through the U.S. mail; we cannot accept faxed material.Please be advised that as an arm of the Supreme Court of Florida, Th e Florida Bar caninvestigate allegations of misconduct against attorneys, an d where appropriate, request that theattorney be disciplined. The Florida Bar cannot render legal advice nor can The Florida Barrepresent individuals or intervene on their behalf in any civil or criminal matter.Please review the enclosed Notice on mailing instructions for information on submitting yourrebuttal.Sincerely,Heidi E. Brewer, Bar CounselAttorney Consumer AssistanceProgramACAP Hotline 866-352-0707Enclosures (Notice of Grievance Procedures, Copy of Letter to Mr. Steffens; Notice - MailingInstructions)cc: M r. Nicholas Theodore Steffens


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1. The enclosed letter is an informal inquiry. Your response is required under theprovisions of The Rules Regulating The Florida Bar 4 8.4(g), Rules of Professional Conduct.Failure to provide a written response to this complaint is in itself a violation of Rule 4 8.4(g). Ifyou do not respond, the matter will be forwarded to the grievance committee for disposition inaccordance with Rule 3-7.3 of the Rules ofDiscipline.2. Many complaints considered first by staff counsel are not forwarded to a grievancecommittee, as they do not involve violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct justifyingdisciplinary action.3. "Pursuant to Rule 3-7.1 (a), Rules ofDiscipline, anyresponse by you in these proceedingsshall become part of the public record of this matter andthereby become accessible to the publicupon the closure of the case by Bar counsel or upon a finding of no probable cause, probablecause, minor misconduct, or recommendation of diversion. Disclosure during the pendency ofan investigation may be made only as to status if a specific inquiry concerning this case is madean d if this matter is generally known to be in the public domain."4. The grievance committee is the Bar's "grand jury." Its function andprocedure are setforth in Rule 3-7.4. Proceedings before the grievance committee, for the most part, are non-adversarial in nature. However, you should carefully review Chapter 3 of the Rules RegulatingThe Florida Bar.5. If the grievance committee finds probable cause, formal adversarial proceedings, whichordinarily lead to disposition by the Supreme Court ofFlorida, will be commenced under3-7.6, unless a plea is submitted under Rule 3-7.


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The Florida Bar j f yInquiry/Complaint FormMs. NancyTorres5336 N.W. 198th TerraceMiami, FL 33055PART ONE: (Read instructions on reverseride.)

PART TWO: The specific thing or things Iam complaining about are: -r" r _ t j 1^.1 A


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it< 9 Page 1 of1

WestonNurseFrom: Nancy Cartagena [[email protected]]Sent: Thursday, January 26, 20129:06 PMTo: [email protected]: Fw: representation Forwarded Message From:Weston NurseTo: [email protected]:[email protected]: Friday, November1V2011 11:28 AMSubject: representationHi,

I received your letter regarding thesituation youhave. I have left numerous messages. Iwould likeall pertinentinformation regarding mycaseso I could proceed in looking for another counsel torepresentme.Please mailme the information. My address is 5336nw 198 terrace Miami fl 33055. thank you for all yourhelp.

NancyCartagena

1/27/2012


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LA *

Nicholas T Steffens &Associates,.?A5571N.UniversityDrive, Suite 101Coral Springs, Floida 33067

November 15,2011

seek counselelsewhere. I appreciate ifyou can mail them as soon as possible

NANCY CARTAGENA


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5571N. University Drive, Suite101, CoralSprings, Fl 33076

N I C H O L A S T ST E F F E N S 32W56 '*** (954)301'6333* A M o c i.t c,, P . A . http://www.ntslaw.comNovember 2, 2011

Dear Client,

contact ae.*youfcryour attentioa to tomato.Ifyou hav. anyq sti.,,,,,donothesitffle toSincerely,

End. NICHOLAST. STEFFENS,ESQ.


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Court o f JflortbaTUESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2011

CASE NO.: SCI 1-521Lower TribunalNo(s).: 2011-50,539(17F),2011-50,776(17F),2011-51,226(17F)OSC

THE FLORIDA BAR vs. NICHOLAS THEODORESTEFFENS

Complainants) Respondent(s)

The uncontested report of the referee is approved and respondent issuspended from the practice of law for ten days, effective thirty days from the dateof this order so that respondent can close out his practice and protect the interests ofexisting clients. If respondent notifies this Court in writing that he is no longerpracticing anddoes not need the thirty days to protect existing clients, this Courtwill enter an order making the suspension effective immediately. Respondent shallfully comply with Rule Regulating the Florida Bar 3-5.l(g). Respondent is furtherdirected to comply with all other terms and conditions of the report, and the consentjudgment.

Respondent shall payrestitution in the amount of $5,000.00 to StewardHuffaker under the terms and conditions set forth in the report, and the consentjudgment.

Judgment is entered for The Florida Bar, 651 East Jefferson Street,Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2300, for recoveryofcosts from Nicholas TheodoreSteffens in the amount of $1,325.00, for which sum let execution issue.


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Generally, the information Client you gives to Firm is subject to the attorney-client privilege, However,Firm is under an independent ethical duty to reveal privileged information, such as illegal or fraudulentacts committed by clients in the course of the attorney-client relationship, the intention of the client tocommit a crime or when the Firm is required to divulge the information by law or court order.Theclients) recognize that they are responsible for a timely response to all communication; whetherwritten or oral, from the firm, attend meetings that are agreed to by both parties; and hold themselves outin a professional matter at all court appearances, mediations and other formal meetings. Failure to actpursuant to the preceding paragraph shall permit the firm to withdraw from representation.What Finn Expects from Client. Inorderibr a lawyer-client relationship to work effectively, Clientmust be truthful in all discussionswith Firm, even if, andespeciallywhen, Client thinks theinformationis hurtful to her and her case. In order to helpClient, Firm needs to have all information in a timelymanner. IfFirm is missing part of the picture, Firm cannot effectively represent Client.Further, Client recognizes that she is responsible for a timely response to all communication; whetherwritten or oral, from the firm, to attend meetings mat are agreed to by both parties; and to hold herself outin a professional manner at all court appearances, mediations and other formal meetings. Failure to actpursuant to the preceding paragraph shall permit the firm to withdraw from representation.Files andRecords. All originals of client materials will be returned to Client, or Client will have anopportunity to retrieve original materials, immediately upon the conclusion of the representation IfClient does not pick up original materials within 12 months of receiving the notice that they are availablethey may be destroyed without further notice to Client.Discontinuing the Representation/Withdrawing from the Representation. Client has the right todiscontinue the services of the firm at any time. However, in a litigation matter, Client's desire to obtaina new attorneyis subject to court approval. The court may not grant fee substitution of counsel or agree todelay the proceeding to provide Client time to obtain a new attorney. Firm and Client shall have the rightto withdraw from and cancel this matter if Client has misrepresentedor failed to disclose material facts toFirm, or ifClient chooses not to follow Finn's advice, or should they both otherwise fail to cooperatewith each other in the handling of mis matter. In any of these events, Firm will execute such necessarydocuments as will permit Finn to withdraw and Client to and seek and retain omer counsel.You shall have the right to withdraw from mis matter ifI have misrepresented or failed to disclosematerialI facts to you or if I have failed to follow your advice or otherwise failedto cooperate with you inthe hand ing of this matter. In any of these events, I will execute such necessary documents as will permityou to withdraw. ^In the event it is necessary to institute suit for the collection of fees and advances owed to Nicholas Tbtettens & Associates, PA., Client will pay, inaddition to anyjudgment for such fees and advances, allcosts andexpenses necessitated thereby, including reasonable attorneys fees for the suitDisposition of Case. Client acknowledges that no guarantees have been made in the disposition of anyphase of the matters) for which Nicholas T. Steffens & Associates, P.A. has been retained Anystatements with regard to probable outcome are opinion only. Nicholas T. Steffens & Associates, P A arespecifically not retained to handle any appeal of the above-captionedmatter, regardless of the dispositionor the matter m the C ircuit/County Court.Court awarded fees. If the court should order payment of attorneys' fees by a thirdparty, the courtawarded fees will first be applied to any outstanding bill for fees you have with the firm.

Flat Fee Retainer Agreement - Nancy CartagenaPage 2 of3


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Client acknowledges that she has readandfully understands the contents of this AgreementIn the event it .is necessary to institute suit for die collection of fees and advances owed to Nicholas T.Steffens &, Associates, PA., I will pay, in addition to any judgment for such fees andadvances, all costsandexpense s necessitated thereby, including reasonable attorneys fees for the suit.I acknowledge that no guarantees have been made in the disposition of anyphase of the matter(s) forwhich Nicholas T. Steffens & Associates, P.A. has been retained. Any statements with regard to probableoutcome are opinion only.I acknowledge that I have read and.follyunderstandthe contentsx>f this agreement.

Accepted tiiClient:

is /TXydayof 20

Print Name

binajrayselGuarant

Nanc^ Cartagena 3ISRaymond Alexander, personallyguarantee that allpayments will be made on the above contract and

to its terms.\Print Namet Raymond AlexanderThe above Employment is accepted:

Nicholas TNICHOLAS

me\ts will be i

Steffens, 1T. STEFFENS & ASS , P.A.

Flat FeeRetainer Agreement -Nancy CartagenaPage 3 of3


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Flat Fee Retainer AgreementI, NANCY CARTAGENA,doherebyretain andemploy NICHOLAS T. STEFFENS & ASSOCIATES,P.A., 5571N. University Drive, CoralSprings, Florida 33076 to represent me, Nancy Cartagena ("theClienT), in litigation ofcase #2010-25755-CA-01 Wells Fargo v. Nancy Cartagena, et al and any andall real estate transactions regarding the settlement ofthat case andstatus of the Property moreparticularly described as 5336 NW 198th Terrace.Miami. Florida 33055.Payments. Client agrees to pay an initial retainer of$425.00 and acknowledges that she is required topay $325,00 monthlyfor 11 monthsfor a total fee of$4,000.00. These funds cover all legal fees andcosts (excluding filing costs for a counterclaim, copies ofdocuments40pages or longer andexpertwitness fees (seebelow)). Client agrees that the retainer mat is given upon the execution of thisAgreement is non-refundable and by signing this Agreement Client hereby agree to such. All paymentsaredue by the 15th of the month, except for the first payment being due on June 1,2010. SometimesFirm mayfeel it advantageous to retain an expert witness in Client's case. An expert witness will beretained onlyafter discussing with Client why it wouldbe helpful andwhat the cost will be. Firm wiltforward invoices from expert witnesses directly to Client for payment Failure to pay the expert witnesswill result in the expert's refusal to perform anyworkon Client's matter and mayseverely prejudice thesuccess ofClient's matter.Any atn^ants that are not paid within fifteen calendar days of the date due shall incur interest at the rate of8% perannum. Anybalance left unpaidfor over thirty(30) days from the due date shall be grounds forthe attorney to withdraw.Furthermore Client acknowledges that if she pays>by check andsaid check is returnedfor insufficientfunds Client hereby agrees to pay any andall fees associated with the returned check and to immediatelyreplace the check upon notice. If Client fails to replace the check within fifteen (15)days she herebyagrees and acknowledges that Client will be liable for three times the amount of the check as per FloridaStatute 68.065.What to Expect from Firm, hi return for receiving saidpayments), Nicholas T. Steffens & Associates,P.A. ("Firm") shall defend the Client in the current mortgage foreclosure matter pending in Miami-DadeCounty, Florida (Case Number 2010-25755-CA-01.) Nicholas T. Steffens &Associates, P.A.shallfileall responsive pleadings, motions andmemorandum to adequatelydefend the clientThe Firm will work diligentlyon Client*s matter andwill keep Client informed regarding the progress ofher matter. Firm will send copies of all correspondence sent onClient's behalf, copies of all pleadingsand other documents filed andcopies of all documents received from opposing/interested parties.Further, Nicholas T. Steffens & Associates, P.A. shall negotiate with the Plaintiff in order to settle thematter. Firm agrees not to enter into any verbal or written agreements withPlaintiff or Plaintiffs agentsthat wouldaffect and/or impact Client receiving a timely andexpeditious resolution regarding Mediation,Modification of Loan, case Settlement, and/or other client-deemed satisfactory disposition of this matter.Firm will advise Client of the recommended technical andlegal tactical issues as they arise so that shemaycontinue to evaluate whether and how she wishes to continue the legal representation. However,lawyers are subject to independent ethical obligations and a lawyer is not obligated to pursue objectives oremploy means simply because Client may wish that the Firm do so, especially if me Firm would beviolating another dutybypursuingthe requested action.

Flat Fee Retainer Agreement - Nancy CartagenaPage 1 of3


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JOHN F. HARKNESS, JR.E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R

T H E F L O R I D A B A R651 EAST JEFFERSON STREETTALLAHASSEE, FL 32399-2300 850/561-5600W W W . F L O R I D A B A R . O R G

April 11,2012

Mr.Nicholas Theodore SteffensNicholas T. Steffens & Associates5571 N University Dr Ste 101Coral Springs, FL 33067-4653Re: Complaint by Nancy Torres against Nicholas Theodore Steffens

The Florida Bar File No. 2012-51,269 (17F)Dear Mr. Steffens:As of this date, I have not received a copy of your response to the above complaint. Please beadvised that you are obligated to provide a written response pursuant to Rule 4-8.4(g).If you do not respond by April 20, 2012, the matter may be forwarded to the grievancecommittee for further investigation.Sincerely,

Heidi E. Brewer, Bar CounselAttorney Consumer Assistance ProgramACAP Hotline 866-352-0707cc: Ms. Nancy Torres


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JOHN F. HARKNESS, JR.E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R

T H E F L O R I D A B A R6 5 1 E A S T JE F F E R S O N S T R E E T

T A L L A H A S S E E , FL 32399-2300 850/561-5600WWW.PLOK1DABAR.ORCMay 21,2012

Mr.Nicholas Theodore SteffensNicholas T. Steffens & Associates5571N University Dr., Ste. 101Coral Springs, FL 33067-4653

Re: Complaint by Nancy Torres against Nicholas Theodore SteffensThe Florida Bar File No. 2012-51,269 (17F)Dear Mr. Steffens:The abovereferenced matter has been forwarded to The Florida Bar's Ft Lauderdale BranchOffice for consideration. You mayexpect to hear from Bar Counsel (in that office) in the nearfuture.Sincerely,

Heidi E.Brewer, Bar CounselAttorney Consumer Assistance ProgramACAP Hotline 866-352-0707cc: Ms.Nancy Torres

M A Y 3 1 2 0 1 2"Honda B a r - A C A PFlorida


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THE FLORIDA BAR6 5 1 E A S T JE F F E R S O N S T R E E TJ O H N F . H A R K N E S S , J R . T A L L A H A S S E E , F L 32399-2300 850/561-5600E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R W W W . F L O R I D A B A R . O R G

May21, 2012

Mr. Nicholas Theodore SteffensNicholas T.-Steffens & Associates5571 N University Dr., Ste. 101Coral Springs, FL 33067-4653Re: Complaint byNancy Torres against Nicholas Theodore Steffens

The Florida Bar File No. 2012-51,269 (17F)Dear Mr. Steffens:The abovereferenced matter has been forwarded to The Florida Bar's Ft. Lauderdale BranchOffice for consideration. You mayexpect to hear from Bar Counsel (in that office) in the nearfuture.Sincerely,

Heidi E. Brewer, Bar CounselAttorney Consumer Assistance ProgramACAP Hotline 866-352-0707cc: Ms. Nancy Torres


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44/49

THE FLORIDA BARF T . L A U D E R D A L E B R A N C H O F F I C EJ O H N F. H A R K N E S S , J R . L A K E S H O R E P L A Z A H (954)835-0233E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R 1300 CONCORD TERRACE, SUITE 130 W W W . F L O R I D A B A R . O R G

S U N R I S E , F L O R I D A 33323July 3, 2012

Via Certified Mail No. 7011 2970 0003 00763765Return Receipt RequestedNicholas-Theodore Steffens, Esq.Nicholas T. Steffens & Associates9900 W. Sample Rd., Ste. 300Coral Springs, FL 33065-4077Re: Complaint by Nancy Torres against Nicholas Theodore SteffensThe Florida Bar File No. 2012-51,269 (17C)Dear Mr. Steffens:Enclosed please find correspondence originally sent to you on May 15, 2012 at your NorthUniversity Drive address. This mail was returned to The Florida Bar as undeliverable. You havesince complied with Rule 1-3.3 of the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar and updated your recordBar address.Please provide your written response with a copy to the complainant on or before July 13,2012.Sincerely,

Ronna Friedman YoungBar Counsel\RFY/aakEnclosurecc: Nancy Torres w/o enclosure


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U N C T E D S T A T E S P O S T A L S E R V I C E

i FT.

SENDER: COMPLETE THIS Sfm Complete items1.a. and3.Abo complete

Item 4 If RestrictedDeflverybdesired. Print yournameandaddresson the reversesothat we can return the card to you. Attachthiscardto hebackof tnemaBptoce,oron thefront If spacepermits.1. Artteto Addressed ta

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4.2. A r U o l e N u m b e r 7D11 5T7D DDD3 DD?b 37bSPS Form 3811, February 2004 Domestic Ratum Receipt


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THE F L O R I D A BARFT. L A U D E R D A L E B R A N C H OFFICEJOHN F. HARKNESS, JR . L A K E S H O R E P L A Z A n (954) 835-0233

E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R 1300CONCORD TERRACE, SUITE 130 W W W .F L O R ID A B A R .O R GS U N R I S E , F L O R I D A 33323

July 24 , 2012VIA REGULAR U.S. MAIL ANDCERTIFIED MAIL NO. 7011 2970 0003 0076 3819RETURN-RECEIPT REQUESTED

Nicholas Theodore Steffens, Esq.Nicholas T. Steffens & Associates9900 W. Sample Rd., Ste. 300Coral Springs, FL 33065-4077Re: Complaint of Nancy Torres against Nicholas Theodore SteffensThe Florida Bar File No. 2012-51,269 (17C)Dear Mr. Steffens:By letter dated March 15,2012, The Florida Bar requested that you provide a response to thecomplaint filed by Nancy Torres. Enclosed is a copy of the March 15 , 2012 letter withenclosures. Additionally, on April 11,2012, The Florida Bar reminded you of your obligation torespond in accordance with Rule 4-8.4(g) of the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar. A copy ofthe April 11, 2012 letter is also enclosed. On May 21, 2012,The Florida Bar advised that thismatter was being referred to the Fort Lauderdale office of The Florida Bar (copy enclosed). Thisletter was returned as "unable to forward" by the post office. A copy of the envelope with saidnotation is enclosed. Lastly, The Florida Bar wrote to you again on July 3,2012 by certifiedmail, return receipt requested, requesting your response. A copy of the letter and the signedreceipt card are enclosed. To date, you have failed to respond to any of these written inquiries byThe Florida Bar.Please note that Rule 4-8.4(g) provides that your failure to respond to an official inquiry with nogood cause shown may be a matter ofcontempt andprocessed in accordance with Rule3-7.1l(f)(2) of the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar. You are hereby notified that should youfail to comply with Rule 4-8.4(g) an d provide a full written response concerning the complaint ofNancy Torres, such failure shall be considered bySeventeenth Judicial Circuit GrievanceCommittee "C" at its meeting on August 6, 2012. This consideration shall be for the sole andexclusive purpose of determining whether or not there is good cause shown for your failure torespond. In reaching its determination, the grievance committee will consider all correspondencebetween you and The Florida Bar on this matter. A list of the current members of GrievanceCommittee 17C is enclosed for your information.

EXHIBITF


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Nicholas Theodore Steftens, Esq.July 24,2012Page 2Thank you for your anticipated cooperation.Sincerely,

Ronna Friedman YoungBar CounselRFY/aakEnclosurescc: Nancy Torres w/o enclosures


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SEVENTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT GRIEVANCE COMMITTEE "C"Alice Elizabeth Solomon, Attorney, Chair, Hillenbrand, O' Brien &Solomon, L.L.P.Jane Carlene Rankin, Attorney, Vice Chair, Kubicki, Draper, et al.Lee F. Lasris, Esq., Florida Health Law Center

~Stecey Schulrn^7Attomey^Cheryl Bucker, Attorney, Cheryl Bucker Law OfficesAdriana Rocio Alcalde, Attorney, State Attorneys O f f i c eDavid Diaz (N/L)Renee Fletcher, (N/L) North West Medical Center -Directorof Risk ManagementCraig Norton, (N/L) Morgan Stanley

NOTE:The above list of grievance committee members is furnished in accordance with RulesRegulating The Florida Bar, chapter 3, Rule 3-7.4, solely for the purpose of determining whethera basis for recusal may exist with respect to any particular member or members of the grievancecommittee who mayhear the matter under consideration. Rule 3-3.4(c) precludes a member of agrievance committee from performing a grievance committee function when that member: (1) isrelated by blood or marriage to the complainant or respondent; (2) has a financial, business,property or personal interest in the matter under consideration, or with the complainant orrespondent; (3) has a personal interest which could be affected by the outcome of theproceedings or which could affect the outcome; or (4) is prejudiced or biased toward either thecomplainant or the respondent. The individual members of the grievance committee, other thanthe investigating member, should not be contacted concerning the merits of the matter underconsideration. If you determine that a member of the grievance committee should recuse himselfor herself from hearing the matter under consideration, you should contact the staff attorney withThe Florida Bar who is assigned your file and the grievance committee chairperson.


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SENDER: COMPLETE THIS SECTION COMPLETE THIS SECTION ON DELIVERYComplete items 1,2, and 3. Also completeitem 4 if Restricted Delivery isdesired.Print your name and address on the reverseso that we can return the card to you.Attach thiscard to theback of themailpiece,or on the front if space permits.

1. Article Addressed to:

DAgentDAddressee

D. Isdelivery aadresstJrff&snt from tem 1? dYesIf YES, enter delivery address below: dNo

3. ServiceTypeta'CertrfiedMalDRegisteredD Insured Mail

DExpress MalDReturn Receipt for MerchandiseOC.OD.

4. Restricted Delivery? (ExtraFee; DYes2. Article Number

(Transfer from service label) 7D11 DDD3 DD7LPS Form 3811,February 2004 Domestic Return Receipt 102595-02-M-1540

Nick Steffens Contempt

Documents

Transcript of Nick Steffens Contempt