Cleanup In Aisle Three

A Louisiana Hearing Committee recommends a stayed suspension and probation for a negligent violation of the duty of confidentiality.

The attorney had been retained by a husband to file for and secure a divorce.

Like so many ethical violations, this one took place in a Piggly Wiggly grocery store.

Within a few days after filing the [divorce] petition, Respondent encountered [unrepresented opposing party] Mrs. Trahan at a Piggly Wiggly grocery store in Chauvin, Louisiana. During that encounter, Respondent discussed with Mrs. Trahan that Mr. Trahan and Respondent’s now-former secretary, Nedra Porche (Ms. Porche), allegedly were having an affair.

He made a sworn statement confirming that he had discussed the rumored affair five or six times with Mrs. Trahan.

He also gave legal advice to her while she was unrepresented.

The committee concluded that his “legal judgment was NEGLIGENTLY [all caps in original] clouded by his feelings and friendship with his long-time employee” and that the violations did not cause significant harm. (Mike Frisch)