Charge To Client For Bar Complaint Response Leads To Suspension

The Virginia State Bar Disciplinary Board accepted a consent disposition of a 30-day suspension for an attorney’s admitted violation of the terms of a prior public reprimannd.

The term at issue required the attorney to not violate the Rules of Professional Conduct for a one year period after imposition.

The violation

Respondent’s misconduct occurred within one year of July 20, 2022. On March 30, 2023, Respondent sent an invoice to a client which included charges for time spent responding to a bar complaint. Based upon these factual allegations, the Fourth District Section I Subcommittee found that Respondent violated Virginia Rule of Professional Conduct 1.5(a).

(Mike Frisch)