A Marijuana-Related Disbarment

The Oklahoma Supreme Court has disbarred an attorney for misconduct in the representation of clients in two matters.

The clients in each matter had paid a $5,000 retainer for assistance in setting up medical marijuana businesses. Each client did not receive the services, sought a refund and complained to the State Bar.

There was no response

Respondent's failure to participate in the disciplinary proceedings to any extent has left us without any evidence to consider in mitigation. Respondent is not presently in good standing with the Oklahoma Bar Association. His license is currently suspended for failure to pay dues and failure to comply with the rules for Mandatory Continuing Legal Education. Furthermore, by failing to cooperate with these disciplinary proceedings, Respondent has shown a flagrant disregard for his obligations as an attorney and disrespect for his clients and the Court. His actions demonstrate a clear indifference as to whether he maintains his ability to practice law in Oklahoma and reflect his inability to do so in a manner consistent with the standards of the Bar...

Kane, V.C.J., with whom Darby, C.J., and Kauger, J., join, concurring in part and dissenting in part:

I would follow the recommendation of the Bar Association and suspend Respondent's license for two years and one day.

(Mike Frisch)