LAWYER DISCIPLINE
A lawyer was admonished after clear and convincing evidence was found of violations of Rules 1.4( a)( 4) and 1.5( b), N. D. R. Prof. Conduct. Clear and convincing evidence was present that no discussion had occurred between the lawyer and the client regarding the hourly rate, information contained within the fee agreement, or the approximate amount of time that would be required to complete the representation, either at the initial meeting or through email correspondence. In addition to the admonition, the lawyer was required to resolve the fee dispute with the client and provide verification to the Office of Disciplinary Counsel that the matter was resolved.
A lawyer was admonished after clear and convincing evidence was found of a violation of Rule 1.3, N. D. R. Prof. Conduct. The lawyer failed to diligently represent the client by failing to make an in-person appearance as required by a judicial order after failing to secure an appearance by reliable electronic means, but instead arranged for another local attorney to conduct the hearing.
A lawyer was admonished after clear and convincing evidence was found of a violation of Rule 5.5, N. D. R. Prof. Conduct. The lawyer inappropriately held themselves out as a practicing lawyer in an exchange with a neighbor by signing an email“ Esq., Attorney at Law” with no clarification that the lawyer was not licensed to practice in North Dakota.
A lawyer was admonished after clear and convincing evidence was found of a violation of Rules 5.5( a) and 8.4( a), N. D. R. Prof. Conduct. The lawyer engaged in the unauthorized practice of law by making filings into a case in which the lawyer was listed as counsel during a term of suspension of the lawyer’ s license.
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