FOR IMMEDIATE NEWS RELEASE

NEWS RELEASE # 083

FROM: CLERK OF SUPREME COURT OF LOUISIANA

On the 26th day of September, 1997 , the following action was taken by the Supreme Court of Louisiana in the case(s) listed below:

PER CURIAM :

97-B - 0879 C/W 97-B - 0880

IN RE: LAURA J. JOHNSON

(Disciplinary Proceedings) Upon review of the findings and recommendations of the hearing committee and disciplinary board, and considering the records, briefs, and oral arguments, it is the decision of the court that respondent, Laura J. Johnson, be suspended from the practice of law for a period of one year, with six months of the suspension deferred, followed by a two year probationary period. It is further ordered that respondent either make restitution in the amount of $400.00 plus legal interest to Stephanie Hodges, or provide proof to disciplinary counsel that such restitution has been previously made. All costs of these proceedings are assessed to respondent.

LEMMON, J. - not on panel. Rule IV, Part 2, 3.

KIMBALL, J. - dissents and would impose a 1 year suspension.

TRAYLOR, J. - dissents and would impose a 1 year suspension.