02.11.2014 Consent Order of Suspension [Macon County]
Photo Courtesy of the North Carolina State Bar
On February 14, 2013, William R. Shilling was arrested and charged with misdemeanor child abuse and communicating threats. The charges stemmed from an alleged domestic violence incident. Three months later, Mr. Shilling pled guilty to both counts. Following the guilty plea, Shilling received a 60-day suspended sentence. The court also entered a Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO). In October of 2013, Shilling was found guilty of violating the DVPO. He received a 75-day suspended sentence. Additionally, in response to a grievance filed with the State Bar, Mr. Shilling made false statements about the events that precipitated his arrest and subsequent conviction.
The hearing panel concluded that Shilling’s criminal acts and false statements violated Rule 8.4 of the North Carolina Rules of Professional Conduct. After weighing various disciplinary options, the panel suspended Shilling from the practice of law for two years. Shilling may petition for a stay, however, after serving one year of the suspension. Such petition may be granted if Shilling demonstrates compliance with various conditions listed in the disciplinary order.
View the full disciplinary order below.
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