When Irish Eyes Aren’t Smiling

The Louisiana Supreme Court has imposed reciprocal disbarment of an attorney based on the sanction imposed in Colorado.

In 1987, respondent maintained a law office in Denver, Colorado, wherein he accepted new legal cases and collected retainers until October 21, 1987. On October 23, 1987, respondent essentially abandoned his law practice when he moved to Ireland without notice to most of his clients. Thereafter, respondent failed to file his 1988 annual registration statement or pay the $90 registration fee.

Seven of respondent’s clients filed grievances with the Colorado Disciplinary Counsel. Respondent failed to appear and answer a multiple count disciplinary complaint. The Supreme Court of Colorado ultimately found that respondent abandoned his law practice, converted his clients’ funds to his own use, and failed to cooperate in the disciplinary proceedings. For this misconduct, the Supreme Court of Colorado disbarred respondent and ordered him to make restitution to the seven clients in the total amount of $14,750.36.

(Mike Frisch)