Getting An Attorney’s Attention (Or Not)

The severe consequences that ensue from failing to respond to a bar complaint in New York are again apparent in an order of disbarment from the Appellate Division for the First Judicial Department.

When an attorney fails to respond to a complaint, interim suspension is imposed. If no response is received within six month, the interim suspension matures into a disbarment.

The court described the allegations:

Respondent’s misconduct included his failure to satisfy a Civil Court judgment a client obtained against him following the arbitration of a fee dispute. Additionally, respondent failed to cooperate with the Committee’s investigation into his conduct.

In the District of Columbia, such misconduct would never be the basis for such a severe sanction. (Mike Frisch)