Rule 4-218. Findings by the Review Panel

(a) Upon receipt of the report from a Special Master pursuant to Rule 4-217(d), the Review Panel shall consider the record, make findings of fact and conclusions of law and determine whether a recommendation of disciplinary action will be made to the Supreme Court and the nature of such recommended discipline. The findings of fact and conclusions of law made by a Special Master shall not be binding on the Panel and may be reversed by it on the basis of the record submitted to the Panel by the Special Master.

(b) The respondent shall have the right to challenge the competency, qualifications, or objectivity of any member of the Review Panel considering the case against him under a procedure as provided for in the rules of the Panel.

(c) There shall be no de novo hearing before the Review Panel except by unanimous consent of the Panel.

(d) The Review Panel may grant rehearings, or new trials, for such reasons, in such manner, on such issues and within such times as the ends of justice may require.

(e) The Review Panel may consider exceptions to the report of the special master and may in its discretion grant oral argument. Exceptions and briefs shall be filed with the Review Panel, in accordance with Bar Rule 4-221(f), no later than twenty days prior to the next scheduled meeting. The responding party shall have ten days after service of the exceptions within which to respond.

(f) The Review Panel shall file its report and the complete record in the disciplinary proceeding with the Clerk of the Supreme Court. A copy of the Panel's report shall be served upon the respondent.