Violation Of Suspension Order Draws Sanction

A press release from the Wyoming State Bar summarizes a recent decision of the Wyoming Supreme Court

 On November 16, 2023, the Wyoming Supreme Court issued an order suspending Cheyenne lawyer Gayla Austin from the practice of law for 60 days commencing January 1, 2024. During the period of her suspension, the Wyoming State Bar’s Office of Bar Counsel received a report that Austin had engaged in the practice of law while she was suspended. A formal charge was filed against Austin which alleged that she had failed to comply with the order of suspension, had engaged in the unauthorized practice of law and made false statements to Bar Counsel. Following a hearing, the Board of Professional Responsibility found that Austin had violated the suspension order, engaged in the unauthorized practice of law during the period of her suspension and made false statements to Bar Counsel. The Board recommended that Austin receive an additional 10-month suspension to be effective March 1, 2024. By order dated December 12, 2024, the Wyoming Supreme Court adopted the Board’s recommendation and ordered Austin to be suspended from the practice of law for a period of 10 months effective March 1, 2024. Austin was ordered to pay costs and administrative fees totaling $5,342.50 to the Wyoming State Bar on or before December 23, 2024.

(Mike Frisch)