Opinion ID: 1257901
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Underlying disciplinary matter

Text: The underlying disciplinary proceeding stemmed from Respondent's representation of a client in a claim for disability benefits against an insurance company. [3] Respondent was found to have violated Rule 1.3 of the Rules of Professional Conduct (Diligence) for failure to diligently pursue a matter for which she was retained; failure to promptly forward discovery documents and requests to the client and her husband in that same matter; and failure to timely consult with that client and her husband regarding the matter. See Report of the Hearing Panel Subcommittee, filed March 12, 2008. Respondent also violated Rule 1.4(a) and (b) of the Rules of Professional Conduct (Communication) because she failed to keep the client and her husband reasonably informed about the status of the client's case; failed to properly comply with reasonable requests for information; and failed to explain matters to the client and her husband to the extent reasonably necessary to permit them to make informed decisions regarding the representation. Id. Additionally, Respondent was found to have violated Rule 8.1(b) of the Rules of Professional Conduct (Bar admission and disciplinary matters) because she failed to respond to three separate requests for information made by the ODC regarding the foregoing ethics complaint and further, failed to comply with a subpoena to appear before the ODC for a sworn statement on a date designated by the ODC. [4] Id. In an order entered May 22, 2008, this Court ordered that Respondent be admonished and, in relevant part, that (1) Respondent sign and follow a plan of supervised practice for a period of one year with a supervising attorney of Respondent's choice approved by the ODC; (2) Respondent undergo comprehensive psychological counseling with a licensed psychologist, follow the psychologist's recommended treatment plan and provide evidence thereof to the ODC; (3) Respondent complete an additional six hours of Continuing Legal Education, over and above that already required, during the 2006-08 reporting period; and (4) Respondent pay $2,279.96, the costs incurred in the disciplinary proceeding. [5]