Unauthorized Settlements Draws Censure

The Rhode Island Supreme Court has imposed a public censure of an attorney who was retained by a Mr. Lambert  and two other Wackenhut Corporation employees in claims of unpaid raises. He then prepared blank retainer agreement for 29 more similarly-situated clients that Lambert had signed by the 29 and returned to him.

The attorney settled all the claims without any direct contact with the 29 clients. In three instances, he signed their names to settlement checks without the client's knowledge, authorization or consent. The value of each claim was different. Only Lambert got an individual consultation.

The attorney violated client solicitation rules and failed to consult with clients about the objectives of representation. (Mike Frisch)