Opinion ID: 1991919
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 6

Heading: the conte matter

Text: Cheryl Ann Conte (grievant) was a certified shorthand reporter. In August 1985, respondent ordered a trial transcript in which respondent represented one of the parties. It was respondent's intention to file an appeal in the matter. Respondent gave grievant a trust account check to cover the deposit for grievant's services. While preparing the transcript, grievant discovered the check had been returned for insufficient funds. Grievant then contacted respondent who informed her the matter had been settled. He agreed, however, to pay grievant for work performed as of that date. On two different occasions, grievant, in writing, demanded payment. Said demands were ignored. Subsequent telephone calls to respondent remained unanswered. Grievant then filed suit against respondent seeking payment of $80.00. Grievant obtained a court order directing the funds in respondent's trust account, approximately $75.00 at that time, be released to her. Prior to the release of said funds, the district ethics committee held a hearing. During the course of that hearing, respondent paid grievant for her services. The committee found respondent had knowingly issued a check with insufficient funds and had refused to pay for grievant's services. Accordingly, the committee recommended that respondent be publicly reprimanded.