Ala. S. Att'y Discip., SECTION II, A, Standard 1.3
These standards are designed for use in imposing discipline following a determination by clear and convincing evidence that a member of the legal profession has violated a provision of the Alabama Rules of Professional Conduct. Descriptions in these standards of substantive disciplinary offenses are not intended to create grounds for determining culpability independent of the Rules of Professional Conduct. The Standards constitute a model, setting forth a comprehensive system for determining discipline, permitting flexibility and creativity in assessing discipline in particular cases of lawyer misconduct. They are designed to promote: (1) consideration of all factors relevant to imposing the appropriate level of discipline in an individual case; (2) consideration of the appropriate weight of such factors in light of the stated goals of lawyer discipline; (3) consistency in the imposition of discipline for the same or similar offenses.
Ala. S. Att'y Discip., SECTION II, A, Standard 1.3