JUSTICE MARTIN VILLARAMA, JR.: A LAWYER MAY BE SUSPENDED OR DISBARRED FOR ANY MISCONDUCT SHOWING ANY FAULT OR DEFICIENCY IN HIS MORAL CHARACTER, HONESTY, PROBITY OR GOOD DEMEANOR

A lawyer may be suspended or disbarred for any misconduct showing any fault or deficiency in his moral character, honesty, probity or good demeanor (Section 27, Rule 138 of the Revised Rules of Court). In Gonzales, the notary public who notarized the document despite the non-appearance of one of the signatories was meted the penalties of revocation of his notarial commission and disqualification from re-appointment for two years. The notary in Gonzales was likewise suspended from the practice of law for one year. x x x  The Court found that by notarizing the questioned deed, the respondent in Gonzales engaged in unlawful, dishonest, immoral or deceitful conduct.  In the instant case, the Supreme Court held that respondent should similarly be meted the penalty of suspension and revocation of his notarial commission for having violated the 2004 Rules on Notarial Practice (Pacita Caalim-Verzonilla vs. Atty. Victoriano G. Pascua, A.C. No. 6655 , October 11, 2011, VILLARAMA, JR., J.).