What We Have Here Is A Failure To Communicate

An attorney who intentionally and repeatedly violated his ethical obligations in two client matters was suspended for three years by the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals.

The court noted that the attorney's failure to act in one matter caused the client "considerable stress" and that both clients had to seek help in the matters. One had to hire a CPA; the other had to retain new counsel.

The court also found it "particularly troubling that [the attorney] has refused to acknowledge the wrongful nature of his conduct."

He blamed his mail carrier, telephone system, voice mail, computer and email for his problems. The court noted that he got one client's $6,540 check through the mail without any delay or problem.

The court rejected a proposed one-year suspension. (Mike Frisch)