Neglect And Related Misconduct Merits Suspension

The Nebraska Supreme Court imposed a 30 day suspension of an attorney who had been retained to help an animal welfare society seek nonprofit corporation status. The attorney had failed to complete the matter, communicate with the client and return the unearned fees. The referee concluded that he was "an unfortunate example of an inexperienced solo practicioner entering into a project and representation which was beyond his legal experience and training" who did not get help from a more experienced lawyer. The court rejected the referee's proposed sanction of public censure. (Mike Frisch)