A Single Fact Sentence And Two Sentences Of Argument

An attorney’s appellate brief in a criminal case drew a public reprimand from the Indiana Supreme Court

Respondent represented “Client” in a criminal direct appeal. In the appellant’s brief Respondent filed on Client’s behalf, the statement of facts consisted of a single sentence that failed to address the facts relevant to the issue raised. Further, Respondent’s substantive argument largely consisted of two sentences that lacked cogent reasoning and citations to the record. The Court of Appeals accordingly held Client’s sole appellate claim was waived, noting that Respondent’s brief was “woefully inadequate” and “essentially made no argument at all.”

The disciplinary matter was the result of an agreed disposition of the parties. (Mike Frisch)