I know the difference b/w administrative suspensions and the ones for cause.  I suspect the high number of admin. susp. is due to people not being able to find jobs and not paying their dues anymore.  Also for the 'old timers, you mean to tell me they practiced law without any issue for 40 years, but due to some health/financial problem they leave their practice in ruin?  I find that hard to believe. 

I know at least one lawyer, who after becoming incapacitated for awhile, contacted the Law Society and his Clients right away and advised of the problem.  Yes, he lost clients, and for some time had "not practicing law" on his LSUC profile, but once he got back on his feet, continued practicing. 

"Not me. I'm going viking style with all my meagre possessions and savings put around my body in a boat then torched. I figure the residual alcohol content will mean fireball on ignition." - the great Minister of Love