How is the ADP different than standard case processing?
In standard case processing, the judge focuses on determining the facts of the misconduct case, and determining what the appropriate level of discipline, if any, should be. This may be achieved through a stipulation (agreement) of the parties or it may require that a trial be held to make these determinations.
In the ADP, the attorney stipulates to the facts of the misconduct, and the judge provides the attorney with two levels of discipline: a lower level of discipline which will be imposed upon successful completion of the program requirements, and a higher level of discipline to be implemented if the attorney does not successfully complete the program requirements.