The Dogs Of Beverly Hills

The California State Bar Court Review Department has recommended a stayed one year suspension and probation for three years of an attorney who solicited and received loans from a client.

The attorney had practiced for 37 years without prior discipline. She served in a number of positions including as Mayor of Beverly Hills. She had a deep interest in animal rescue issues. She was convicted of a misdemeanor in connection with the operation of a kennel.

The client was a kennel operator who was charged with animal cruelty. The attorney assured the client that she was an "expert in dog issues" as a result of the prior charges against her.

The loans (totaling $9,000) were solicited shortly thereafter. There was no documentation, interest charges or date of repayment.

The review department rejected the contentions that there was no attorney-client relationship and that the loans were out of friendship and their mutual interest in canines. (Mike Frisch)