Opinion ID: 3194599
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Injury Resulting from the Misconduct

Text: The panel concluded that Hawkins' conduct resulted in actual injury to her clients, the legal profession, and the legal system. In support of this conclusion, the panel cited Butler's testimony regarding the additional legal fees her client incurred as a result of Hawkins' attempt to set aside the court's decision resulting from the May 9, 2012, hearing. The panel, relying on Butler's testimony regarding Hawkins' conduct at a June 21, 2012, hearing to set aside the district court's decision, also found that Hawkins used an impertinent tone with the court and attacked both Ms. Butler and Ms. Olberding. Finally, the panel concluded that Hawkins' actions during her representation of J.G. resulted in injury to the legal system and to the parties. Specifically, the respondent's actions frustrated the forward action of the case, increased confusion between the parties, and frustrated the court. As noted above, clear and convincing evidence shows that Hawkins (1) filed an initial temporary parenting plan that did not reflect the interests or the position of J.G; and (2) improperly directed J.G. not to answer questions posed to her 63 at a deposition. We agree with the hearing panel's conclusion that Hawkins caused injury to her clients, the legal profession, and the legal system.